Bel Air Church: Recent Episodes
Bel Air Church
Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34
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Scripture: Luke 8:40-48
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Scripture: 1 Samuel 3
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Scripture: Exodus 3:1-6
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Scripture: Deuteronomy 30:11-19; Revelation 21:1-6
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Scripture: Exodus 12:1-14; Luke 22:14-20
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Scripture: Nehemiah 9
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Scripture: Daniel 3:16-26
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Scripture: Ezra 3:10-13
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Scripture: Lamentations 3:19-33
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Scripture: Psalm 42:1-6
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Scripture: 1 Kings 19:1-18
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Scripture: 1 Samuel 7:3-12
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Scripture: Judges 2:1-15
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Scripture: Joshua 4:1-9
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Scripture: Deuteronomy 8:1-10
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Scripture: Exodus 14:10-31
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Scripture: Ephesians 2:10
This week we welcome a very special guest: Dr. Ed Silvoso. For more information about Ed and his ministry, please visit http://www.transformourworld.org.
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Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:27
Happy Easter Bel Air Church family!
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Scripture: John 12:1-16
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Due to technical issues, this week's podcast is taken from our weekly YouTube pre-recorded online ministry. This week, Rebecca Morgan continues our series Embodied.
Scripture: Mark 5:21:34
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Scripture: John 10:27-30, 20:20, 20:27; Luke 4:50, 24:50
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Scripture: Matthew 15:21-28
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Scripture: Philippians 2:5-11; 1 Corinthians 2:16
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Scripture: 2 Cor. 5:20; John 10:27
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Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
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Scripture: Psalm 111:2
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Scripture: Lamentations 3:22-23
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Scripture: Isaiah 40:6-8; Matthew 7:24-27; Hebrews 1:3
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Scripture: Matthew 4:1-4; Psalm 19:7-10; Ezekiel 3:1-3
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Scripture: Psalm 119:114; Jeremiah 23:29-31
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Scripture: Psalm 1:1-3
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Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12
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Scripture: Luke 1:46-55
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Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-38
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Scripture: Luke 1:5-25
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Scripture: Luke 1:5-25; Amos 8:11; Malachi 4:5-6
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Scripture: Colossians 3:12-17
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Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:1-17
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Scripture: Jeremiah 29:1, 4-14
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Scripture: Mark 9:14-29
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Scripture: John 14:15-17
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Scripture: Matthew 16:13-20
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Scripture: John 14:1-6
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Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-14
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Scripture: Matthew 5:9; 2 Cor. 5:17-20
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Scripture: Acts 28:16-31
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Scripture: Acts 17:16-34
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Scripture: Ephesians 1 1:10
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Scripture: Acts 10:1-16
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Scripture: Acts 9:1-19
Please note: this audio is from our prerecorded YouTube broadcast. Due to technical difficulties, the live sermon audio from August 24th is not available.
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Scripture: Acts 8:26-40; Isaiah 53:10-11; Isaiah 56:3-5
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Scripture: Acts 5:1-11
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Scripture: Acts 4:32-37
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Scripture: Acts 4:1-13
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Scripture: Acts 3:1-10
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Scripture: Acts 2:42:47
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Scripture: Acts 2:1-13
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Scripture: Acts 1:12-26
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Scripture: Acts 1:1-11
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Scripture: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17
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Scripture: Matthew 5:21-24; Ephesians 4:26-27
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Scripture: Psalm 23:4-6; Isaiah 41:10; Joshua 1:9
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Scripture: Habakkuk 1:1-4
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Scripture: Romans 3:23; Lamentations 3:22-23
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Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30
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Scripture: 1 Samuel 24:1-7
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Scripture: Romans 12:2, Psalm 13:1-2
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Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
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Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
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Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
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Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:1-8a; Philippians 2:5-8
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Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
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Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
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Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:8-12
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Scripture: John 14:25-27
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Scripture: Colossians 1:15-20
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Scripture: Matthew 26:36-46
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Scripture: John 1:35-43; Matthew 4:19; Luke 9:21-27
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Scripture: Ezekiel 44:15
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Scripture: Isaiah 61:1-7
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Scripture: John 15:5; Acts 2:43-47; Ephesians 4:11
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Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12
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Scripture: 1 John 3:11-17
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Scripture: Luke 10:17-24; Luke 22:39-44; Luke 22:46
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Scripture: John 14:25-31
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Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30
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Scripture: Colossians 3:15-17
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Scripture: Psalm 77:11-15
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Scripture: Matthew 18:21-22
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Scripture: Psalm 32:1-5
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Scripture: Revelation 19:6-9; Revelation 21:1-5
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Scripture: Luke 24:36-49
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Scripture: Luke 24:13-35
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Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:19
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Scripture: Luke 14:1-24
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Scripture: Luke 10:38-42; John 12:1-3
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Scripture: Luke 9:10-17
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Scripture: Luke 7:36-50
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Scripture: Luke 6:1-5; Exodus 20:8-11
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Scripture: Luke 5:27-32
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Scripture: John 2:1-11
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Scripture: Ezekiel 34:1-16; 36:26-28
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Scripture: Daniel 3:16-29; Isaiah 43:1b-2
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Scripture: Isaiah 52:13-15; Isaiah 53
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Scripture: Isaiah 6:1-8
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Scripture: 1 Samuel 25; John 18:1-9
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Scripture: 2 Samuel 9
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Scripture: Numbers 35:9-15; Hebrews 6:18-20
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Scripture: Exodus 3:1-15
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Scripture: Gen. 15:1-21; Heb. 6:13-20
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Scripture: Gen. 2:4-9; Gen. 3:15; Gen. 3:20; 1 Cor. 15:45-49
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Scripture: Genesis 1:1-3; John 1:1-5, 14; Colossians 1:15-17
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Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
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Scripture: Ephesians 2: 12-22; 1 John 4:7-16
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Scripture: 1 Peter 2:9
Due to unfortunate technical issues, the recording of Pastor Drew's sermon cuts off abruptly before its ending.
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Scripture: Genesis 1:1-5, 26, 27
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Scripture: Matthew 16:13-18; Acts 11:26
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Scripture: 1 Peter 2:1-10; Hebrews 4:14-16; Romans 12:1-2
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Scripture: 1 Cor. 12:12-27; Eph. 4:11-16
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Scripture: Phil. 3:20; Eph. 2:17-20; 1 Peter 2:9-10; 2 Cor. 5:16-21
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Scripture: 1 Peter 2:4-8; Ephesians 2:19-22
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Scripture: Romans 6:5-11; Galations 2:20
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Scripture: Matthew 7:13-14
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Scripture: Matthew 7:1-5
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Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34
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Scripture: Matthew 5:43-48
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Scripture: Matthew 5:21-26
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Scripture: Matthew 5:1-11
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Scripture: Luke 17:11-19, Psalm 95:1-7, 138:1-2
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Scripture: Luke 11:1-4, Matthew 6:9-13
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Scripture: Hebrews 4:14-16; John 17:15-19; 1 Peter 2:4-5
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Scripture: Psalms 51
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Scripture: Psalms 13
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Scripture: 1 Samuel 2:1-10
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Scripture: Revelation 22:5; Isaiah 60:19-20
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Scripture: Ephesians 5:8-14; Matthew 5:14-16
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Scripture: Luke 2:8-20; Matthew 2:1-12
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Scripture: Isaiah 40:1-5; Luke 1:76-79
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Scripture: Isaiah 9:2, John 1:1-5
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"Like, Follow, Subscribe, Share": In a culture of fame, Christ calls us to follow.
Scripture: Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8
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"Like, Follow, Subscribe, Share": In a culture of fame, Christ calls us to follow.
Scripture: Matthew 16:24-25
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"Like, Follow, Subscribe, Share": In a culture of fame, Christ calls us to follow.
Scripture: Matthew 18:21-35
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"Like, Follow, Subscribe, Share": In a culture of fame, Christ calls us to follow.
Scripture: John 1:35-39
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Scripture: Genesis 1:1-3; Corinthians 1:15-17
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Scripture: Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 2:1-8; Exodus 33:7-11
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Scripture: Romans 12:1-13
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Leading In the Midst of Chaos with Pastor James Byensi of the Congo
Imagine leading a rebuilding effort in the epicenter of intense rebel warfare while multinational interests extract natural resources that are used in the production of mobile phones, laptops, and nearly every kind of electronic device.
While many would be overwhelmed or run away, Pastor James and his wife, Riziki, are on the front lines bringing churches and souls back to life through provisions of food, medical and trauma care, vocational training, education, restoration of churches and communities, peace and reconciliation conferences, and much more despite constant threats to their life.
Pastor Drew Sams took an opportunity to sit down with Pastor James to hear about the work that he does as the founder of the Rebuilders Ministry and how listeners can better lead in the midst of chaos in our own situations at home.
Additionally, the following are ways you can multiply your impact to the situation in the Congo today:
- PRAY for peace, reconciliation, and protection in the Democratic Republic of Congo; and PRAY for Pastor James, his family, and team of front-line servants.
- GIVE to the ongoing ministry of Bel Air Church by visiting BELAIR.ORG/GIVE, as we continue to support Rebuilders throughout the year as well as other local and global outreach needs.
- VISIT BELAIR.ORG/OUTREACH to learn more about how you can be part of the church at work in Los Angeles and around the world, including an invitation to travel with our Bel Air family to the Congo on a short-term mission trip.
- SIGN UP to pray, go, or learn more HERE.
Help spread the word by rating and reviewing today’s podcast!
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Scripture: Matthew 16:18
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Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:16-21
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Scripture: Genesis 1:1-5
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Scripture: John 3:16; John 8:31-32 & 36
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Scripture:Genesis 1:26-31; 2:1-4
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Scripture:Acts 2:43-47
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Scripture:John 4:1-42
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Scripture:Luke 19:1-10
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Scripture:Luke 18:18-30
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Scripture:John 3:1-21, John 7:50, John 19:39
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Scripture:Luke 8:26-28; Mark 5:1-20
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Scripture:Luke 17:12-19
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Scripture:Mark 9:19 & 10:13-16
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Scripture:Mark 9:19 & 10:13-16
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Scripture:Mark 7:24-30 [ESV]
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Scripture:Matthew 9:9-13
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Scripture:Mark 5:21-43
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Scripture:Luke 3:1-6
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Scripture:Revelation 3:14-22
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Scripture:Revelation 3:7-13
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Scripture:Revelation 3:1-6
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Scripture:Joshua 1:1-9
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Scripture:Revelation 2:18-29
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Scripture:Revelation 2:12-17
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Scripture: Revelation 2:8-11
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Scripture:Revelation 2:1-7
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Scripture:Luke 15:11-24
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Scripture: Luke 15:11-24
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Scripture: Matthew 13:1-23
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Scripture: Luke 6:46-49 (also Matthew 7:24-27)
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Scripture: Luke 7:36-50
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Scripture: Matthew 9:14-17, Mark 2:18-22
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Scripture: Mark 9:33-37
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Is truth real? As we push further into Two Truths (eternal and worldly), we discover how elusive truth is in the world. We are indeed helpless to discover goodness in the world without Christ. Below the sun, we are enslaved to truth. Above the sun, we are set free by truth. Dr. Sams reminds us that practically speaking, we simply have to point our gifts toward the service of Christ, and the truth, the absolute good and perfect truth, guides us to eternal joy.
Is truth real? As we push further into Two Truths (eternal and worldly), we discover how elusive truth is in the world. We are indeed helpless to discover goodness in the world without Christ. Below the sun, we are enslaved to truth. Above the sun, we are set free by truth. Dr. Sams reminds us that practically speaking, we simply have to point our gifts toward the service of Christ, and the truth, the absolute good and perfect truth, guides us to eternal joy.
Ecclesiastes dares to ask hard questions. For most of it, the book points out how meaningless everything is without something more. Dr. Sams shows us that this book, taken in context of eternity, of Jesus, of salvation, of God's love, can remind us how much God cares for us - that true meaning, is more than what we experience in our short time on this earth.
Ecclesiastes dares to ask hard questions. For most of it, the book points out how meaningless everything is without something more. Dr. Sams shows us that this book, taken in context of eternity, of Jesus, of salvation, of God's love, can remind us how much God cares for us - that true meaning, is more than what we experience in our short time on this earth.
As Christians, we can look to Paul for the secret of satisfaction. We cannot expect safety and comfort, but as Rev. Mike Morgan helps us understand, Paul's secret of contentment relies completely outside of anything but Jesus. There is no level of performance we can give that will lead God to blessing us. His desire for us is simply to be with Himself. He is enough, Christ is enough, and when focused on Christ, we are enough.
As Christians, we can look to Paul for the secret of satisfaction. We cannot expect safety and comfort, but as Rev. Mike Morgan helps us understand, Paul's secret of contentment relies completely outside of anything but Jesus. There is no level of performance we can give that will lead God to blessing us. His desire for us is simply to be with Himself. He is enough, Christ is enough, and when focused on Christ, we are enough.
Pastor James Byensi joins us from our partner church in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Watch or listen to this inspirational message.
Pastor James Byensi joins us from our partner church in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Watch or listen to this inspirational message.
Continuing with a theme from last week, Dr. Sams contrasts for us the cultural value of our resume, CV, credit list, or references, etc. with eternal reality: God's standards are so high, that our greatest accomplishments give us no eternal credit. We fall into this trap again and again. The affirmation of our peers is powerful. But it doesn't last. What lasts is Christ's righteousness. Do you want peace, regardless of how bad life gets? If so, there is good news a click away.
Continuing with a theme from last week, Dr. Sams contrasts for us the cultural value of our resume, CV, credit list, or references, etc. with eternal reality: God's standards are so high, that our greatest accomplishments give us no eternal credit. We fall into this trap again and again. The affirmation of our peers is powerful. But it doesn't last. What lasts is Christ's righteousness. Do you want peace, regardless of how bad life gets? If so, there is good news a click away.
For over 2000 years, we (especially Americans in the last 200+ years) have developed a culture of success. We choose to believe that success makes us happy. I think most of us have discovered this is an illusion. But... why does it fail us so consistently? Dr. Sams explores Philippians 2:1-11 with us today, a scripture that telescopes into eternity, and we see that there exists "The Way", called Jesus, and that if we give up our lives to Him, He does not disappoint. He can fill any void left by any and all of our culture's illusions. He not only gives us life by his death, he gives us life by his life, and that life is everlasting. Dr. Sams gets fired up for this passage. If you need encouragement, have a listen to this Gospel message. Good news awaits you!
For over 2000 years, we (especially Americans in the last 200+ years) have developed a culture of success. We choose to believe that success makes us happy. I think most of us have discovered this is an illusion. But... why does it fail us so consistently? Dr. Sams explores Philippians 2:1-11 with us today, a scripture that telescopes into eternity, and we see that there exists "The Way", called Jesus, and that if we give up our lives to Him, He does not disappoint. He can fill any void left by any and all of our culture's illusions. He not only gives us life by his death, he gives us life by his life, and that life is everlasting. Dr. Sams gets fired up for this passage. If you need encouragement, have a listen to this Gospel message. Good news awaits you!
God is an alchemist. Nope. I can't give that one away. You'll have to hear Dr. Sams unpack that one for you. In his third sermon in the series on the book of Philippians, we find the ultimate challenge of Scripture: to live is Christ. In reality, that's difficult to believe, and even more difficult to live. As much as we know the "churchy" answer, the challenge remains. But remember: God is an alchemist. Now, go watch.
God is an alchemist. Nope. I can't give that one away. You'll have to hear Dr. Sams unpack that one for you. In his third sermon in the series on the book of Philippians, we find the ultimate challenge of Scripture: to live is Christ. In reality, that's difficult to believe, and even more difficult to live. As much as we know the "churchy" answer, the challenge remains. But remember: God is an alchemist. Now, go watch.
Pastor Drew continues his series on Philippians, A Life Like No Other, specifically focusing on Philippians 1:7–11.
Pastor Drew continues his series on Philippians, A Life Like No Other, specifically focusing on Philippians 1:7–11.
On resurrection Sunday, Dr. Sams again reminds us of God's love for our souls by opening the book of Philippians, launching a new sermon series, "A Life Like No Other". Using the Apostle Paul's own words, Dr. Sams shows us the power of God's love to transform us from potential saints into masterpieces of sainthood. To illustrate this, a special guest takes the platform to testify to the tender and personal saving power of Christ.
On resurrection Sunday, Dr. Sams again reminds us of God's love for our souls by opening the book of Philippians, launching a new sermon series, "A Life Like No Other". Using the Apostle Paul's own words, Dr. Sams shows us the power of God's love to transform us from potential saints into masterpieces of sainthood. To illustrate this, a special guest takes the platform to testify to the tender and personal saving power of Christ.
On Palm Sunday, Dr. Sams closes the "Drawing Near" series by showing us exactly how near God draws to us all. Jesus draws so near, in fact, that His identity is stamped onto our souls. The blessing of Palm Sunday is that Christ makes us citizens of heaven, and this informs our identity exclusively. All other aspects of our identity are secondary - by a great deal. We walk in supreme grace. Watch this sermon, and hear the good news here. We are set free.
On Palm Sunday, Dr. Sams closes the "Drawing Near" series by showing us exactly how near God draws to us all. Jesus draws so near, in fact, that His identity is stamped onto our souls. The blessing of Palm Sunday is that Christ makes us citizens of heaven, and this informs our identity exclusively. All other aspects of our identity are secondary - by a great deal. We walk in supreme grace. Watch this sermon, and hear the good news here. We are set free.
In contrast to how our society loves, Christ shows us that our need to be loved cannot be filled in this world. Our world loves in order to fulfill itself. In the end, we end up using people, and love is cheapened. In contrast, true love expects nothing, needs nothing, and acts for its own sake. Christ loves because He loves. In the fourth "Drawing Near" sermon, Dr. Sams shows us Christ washing His disciples' feet, and how, in a simple selfless act, true love is put on display as an invitation to us all.
In contrast to how our society loves, Christ shows us that our need to be loved cannot be filled in this world. Our world loves in order to fulfill itself. In the end, we end up using people, and love is cheapened. In contrast, true love expects nothing, needs nothing, and acts for its own sake. Christ loves because He loves. In the fourth "Drawing Near" sermon, Dr. Sams shows us Christ washing His disciples' feet, and how, in a simple selfless act, true love is put on display as an invitation to us all.
If we are at all familiar with the gospel, we know we are lost. There is no question about it. The real question is whether we are willing to be found, because once He finds us, He sends us out to do work. Many of us stop short of that. We want to be found, and only found. Jesus goes to great lengths to recover his lost sheep. But once recovered, we are called to follow. There is good news for those who do. Have a listen, and find out why.
If we are at all familiar with the gospel, we know we are lost. There is no question about it. The real question is whether we are willing to be found, because once He finds us, He sends us out to do work. Many of us stop short of that. We want to be found, and only found. Jesus goes to great lengths to recover his lost sheep. But once recovered, we are called to follow. There is good news for those who do. Have a listen, and find out why.
We try to control and manage things, our lives being paramount. Many times, we treat God no differently. We place conditions on our love for God. If He behaves how we want, we love Him. This is exactly opposite of how God treats us. Whether our sin is riddled with consequences, or it is so minor that only we and God are aware, we still all fall short of God's perfect standard of righteousness. Putting your weight on something so much that you become vulnerable is God's standard for capturing our heart. He expects nothing less, and accepts nothing less. Hear the Gospel again, and know He is faithful with our hearts. He provides, and as we surrender, He provides more.
We try to control and manage things, our lives being paramount. Many times, we treat God no differently. We place conditions on our love for God. If He behaves how we want, we love Him. This is exactly opposite of how God treats us. Whether our sin is riddled with consequences, or it is so minor that only we and God are aware, we still all fall short of God's perfect standard of righteousness. Putting your weight on something so much that you become vulnerable is God's standard for capturing our heart. He expects nothing less, and accepts nothing less. Hear the Gospel again, and know He is faithful with our hearts. He provides, and as we surrender, He provides more.
We all have places in our hearts that are "off limits". Usually, these are the places where we are the most guilty, the most ashamed, the most filled with sin, the most corrupt. In the first sermon of our "Drawing Near" series, Dr. Sams reminds us that as we draw nearer to each other, and courageously share our spiritual messes, we discover we're drawing near to Jesus, the great healer of all our ailments. Christ uses His children drawing near to each other to draw us all near to Him. He sets us all free from shame, and draws us further into His kingdom.
We all have places in our hearts that are "off limits". Usually, these are the places where we are the most guilty, the most ashamed, the most filled with sin, the most corrupt. In the first sermon of our "Drawing Near" series, Dr. Sams reminds us that as we draw nearer to each other, and courageously share our spiritual messes, we discover we're drawing near to Jesus, the great healer of all our ailments. Christ uses His children drawing near to each other to draw us all near to Him. He sets us all free from shame, and draws us further into His kingdom.
This week's message is so simple. The gospel shows preference to those of least stature in our society. Our guest speaker, Bishop W.C. Martin, comes from Possum Trot, Texas. His church doesn't have members in the thousands, and budgets in the millions. Yet, at Bennet Chapel, Bishop Martin's church of 200, they have adopted 76 children who needed homes. Possum Trot isn't Bel Air. But when you look at what Bennet Chapel has done, you have to wonder which community is truly wealthy.
This week's message is so simple. The gospel shows preference to those of least stature in our society. Our guest speaker, Bishop W.C. Martin, comes from Possum Trot, Texas. His church doesn't have members in the thousands, and budgets in the millions. Yet, at Bennet Chapel, Bishop Martin's church of 200, they have adopted 76 children who needed homes. Possum Trot isn't Bel Air. But when you look at what Bennet Chapel has done, you have to wonder which community is truly wealthy.
In the second story of our series, Dr. Sams reminds us of Ruth, a story of courageous "going." Ruth leaves her native home to join the Israelites in Judah, leaving behind everything she knows to follow her mother-in-law, Naomi. As the story unfolds, Ruth is transformed by her own courage, and Naomi is transformed by Ruth's transformation. Naomi's hope feeds Ruth's hope, and vice versa. Listen, and hear a brilliant chapter about redemption, the importance of meaningful relationships, and how all this is a foretelling of the coming of Jesus.
In the second story of our series, Dr. Sams reminds us of Ruth, a story of courageous "going." Ruth leaves her native home to join the Israelites in Judah, leaving behind everything she knows to follow her mother-in-law, Naomi. As the story unfolds, Ruth is transformed by her own courage, and Naomi is transformed by Ruth's transformation. Naomi's hope feeds Ruth's hope, and vice versa. Listen, and hear a brilliant chapter about redemption, the importance of meaningful relationships, and how all this is a foretelling of the coming of Jesus.
God's call is powerful (loud, clear, and usually with a big scope) and qualifying (as in, if he calls us, we're qualified). In the first of a pair of sermons, Dr. Sams explores how we "go" as God calls us to go. No matter how much we engage with others and pretend we're "all-in", God's call to us remains. It's a personal beckoning and demands a personal response. We must surrender control of our comforts and look to Him, for God wants all of you, all of me, all of us. He wants to do His work through us. It is how heaven comes down, how we "church" together.
God's call is powerful (loud, clear, and usually with a big scope) and qualifying (as in, if he calls us, we're qualified). In the first of a pair of sermons, Dr. Sams explores how we "go" as God calls us to go. No matter how much we engage with others and pretend we're "all-in", God's call to us remains. It's a personal beckoning and demands a personal response. We must surrender control of our comforts and look to Him, for God wants all of you, all of me, all of us. He wants to do His work through us. It is how heaven comes down, how we "church" together.
In the scripture Dr. Sams examines with us on Vision Sunday, we learn a new Greek word: Kairos. Kairos represents events, deeper experiences instead of a measurement of minutes or months. Our culture is fascinated and driven by Chronos. Both words translate to English as "time," but Chronos is measured and finite. Think, "It's time to get in shape." Kairos. "It's 5:23 PM." Chronos. Kairos speaks directly to our vision for Bel Air. Listen and be reminded what God can do through us when we grasp how Kairos increases our availability to God.
In the scripture Dr. Sams examines with us on Vision Sunday, we learn a new Greek word: Kairos. Kairos represents events, deeper experiences instead of a measurement of minutes or months. Our culture is fascinated and driven by Chronos. Both words translate to English as "time," but Chronos is measured and finite. Think, "It's time to get in shape." Kairos. "It's 5:23 PM." Chronos. Kairos speaks directly to our vision for Bel Air. Listen and be reminded what God can do through us when we grasp how Kairos increases our availability to God.
This Sunday we had the privilege of hearing the Word of God preached by Dr. Emmanuel Bellon, international leadership consultant, and friend of Bel Air Church. Dr. Bellon comes to us from Nairobi, Kenya, and is largely responsible for establishing our partnership with CECA church in Bunia, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Dr. Bellon opens the scriptures to encourage us with his thoughts about our vision to follow Jesus every day and everywhere with everyone.
This Sunday we had the privilege of hearing the Word of God preached by Dr. Emmanuel Bellon, international leadership consultant, and friend of Bel Air Church. Dr. Bellon comes to us from Nairobi, Kenya, and is largely responsible for establishing our partnership with CECA church in Bunia, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Dr. Bellon opens the scriptures to encourage us with his thoughts about our vision to follow Jesus every day and everywhere with everyone.
Continuing with the trend of making all of us uncomfortable, Dr. Sams reminds us that in the conflicts we will face with evil, we ourselves fall short of God's standards. Our righteousness is worthless. Yet, there are steps we can follow to be filled with Christ's righteousness. Though our brokenness gets the best of us again and again, we can choose another way, Christ's Way. Would you listen, and hear this most relevant Gospel message? It can change you, and the people you engage in life. It is full of power and wonder.
Continuing with the trend of making all of us uncomfortable, Dr. Sams reminds us that in the conflicts we will face with evil, we ourselves fall short of God's standards. Our righteousness is worthless. Yet, there are steps we can follow to be filled with Christ's righteousness. Though our brokenness gets the best of us again and again, we can choose another way, Christ's Way. Would you listen, and hear this most relevant Gospel message? It can change you, and the people you engage in life. It is full of power and wonder.
If you've been to Bel Air Church or listened to our sermons for the past 3 years, you've probably heard Dr. Sams use an intriguing word: xenophilia. Basically, this is love of stranger, and is embodied in the word "hospitality". This isn't the kind of "being nice to your house guests" hospitality (although that kind is included). It's the kind where you are so in touch with your identity in Christ, that you see Christ in the stranger, and therefore, extend uncommon love and sacrifice for their needs. It's the stuff church is made of. Have a listen to this sermon, and hear not only the gospel, but a great testimony from one of our newest parishioners of how xenophilia at Bel Air Church changed him.
If you've been to Bel Air Church or listened to our sermons for the past 3 years, you've probably heard Dr. Sams use an intriguing word: xenophilia. Basically, this is love of stranger, and is embodied in the word "hospitality". This isn't the kind of "being nice to your house guests" hospitality (although that kind is included). It's the kind where you are so in touch with your identity in Christ, that you see Christ in the stranger, and therefore, extend uncommon love and sacrifice for their needs. It's the stuff church is made of. Have a listen to this sermon, and hear not only the gospel, but a great testimony from one of our newest parishioners of how xenophilia at Bel Air Church changed him.
Pastor Drew announces Session's decision to better align our worship services with the goal of having people not just "worship and go," but rather "worship and grow." Changes to service times will be coming later this year. Please watch for updates. NOTE: This announcement was made at the 11 a.m. worship service. It was also given at all other service times.
Pastor Drew announces Session's decision to better align our worship services with the goal of having people not just "worship and go," but rather "worship and grow." Changes to service times will be coming later this year. Please watch for updates. NOTE: This announcement was made at the 11 a.m. worship service. It was also given at all other service times.
When the church started in the first century, the Greek word for hope indicated that things were bound to go badly, and one could only hope things would not. Hope is a play on words in Romans 12:12. Dr. Sams takes us deeper into the word, and uses scripture to expand the meaning of "hope" to its truth: that we anchor in Jesus Christ, and He never fails us. If you are frustrated with prayer, or how your life is going, or with God Himself, do not miss the Good News in this sermon.
When the church started in the first century, the Greek word for hope indicated that things were bound to go badly, and one could only hope things would not. Hope is a play on words in Romans 12:12. Dr. Sams takes us deeper into the word, and uses scripture to expand the meaning of "hope" to its truth: that we anchor in Jesus Christ, and He never fails us. If you are frustrated with prayer, or how your life is going, or with God Himself, do not miss the Good News in this sermon.
Becoming a community that serves passionately hinges on our relationships with God. We cannot allow our zeal to diminish if we want our church to flourish. Dr. Sams reminds us that Scripture tells us we are to do exactly that, directly. It is a divine imperative. Even when we don't feel like obeying God, we can choose zeal. We can choose fervency. We can call on infinite strength and the Spirit always provides. Listen, and be encouraged about the possibility when that fire spreads.
Becoming a community that serves passionately hinges on our relationships with God. We cannot allow our zeal to diminish if we want our church to flourish. Dr. Sams reminds us that Scripture tells us we are to do exactly that, directly. It is a divine imperative. Even when we don't feel like obeying God, we can choose zeal. We can choose fervency. We can call on infinite strength and the Spirit always provides. Listen, and be encouraged about the possibility when that fire spreads.
We settle so often for shadows of peace. We accept things that are temporal, or worldly, instead of reaching for things that are eternal. God's enemy tries to convince us that shadows are enough - that if we just lean into them enough, they will suffice. But once you see light, such as the Advent of Christ, or after a rough night of camping (have a listen to find out what that means), you cannot settle any longer for shadows of peace. And the best news at Christmas, is that Christ, the Prince of Peace, is with us.
We settle so often for shadows of peace. We accept things that are temporal, or worldly, instead of reaching for things that are eternal. God's enemy tries to convince us that shadows are enough - that if we just lean into them enough, they will suffice. But once you see light, such as the Advent of Christ, or after a rough night of camping (have a listen to find out what that means), you cannot settle any longer for shadows of peace. And the best news at Christmas, is that Christ, the Prince of Peace, is with us.
On the first Sunday of Advent, Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley reminds us of God's unchanging favor toward us going all the way back to Noah. Just as God established a covenant of peace with Noah, He continues these promises of peace through Isaiah, through Jesus, through the church, and even to us personally. God's peace reigns over us, and is made manifest in the Advent of Jesus's birth. How does this relate to a bow and arrow? Listen to find out.
On the first Sunday of Advent, Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley reminds us of God's unchanging favor toward us going all the way back to Noah. Just as God established a covenant of peace with Noah, He continues these promises of peace through Isaiah, through Jesus, through the church, and even to us personally. God's peace reigns over us, and is made manifest in the Advent of Jesus's birth. How does this relate to a bow and arrow? Listen to find out.
What comes out when you're oppressed by the world? Dr. Sams explores Christ's words, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Does it really mean what it seems to mean? Is Christ complaining? Was the cross more than He could bear? No. By no means. Listen, and discover a secret to endurance, even to the worst this world has to offer.
What comes out when you're oppressed by the world? Dr. Sams explores Christ's words, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Does it really mean what it seems to mean? Is Christ complaining? Was the cross more than He could bear? No. By no means. Listen, and discover a secret to endurance, even to the worst this world has to offer.
Dr. Sams takes the occasion of a recent election to dwell in the thought of who is really in control. And in reminding us that Jesus is King of kings, we are reminded of the eternal standards to which we're called. Now, more than ever, our light can shine brightly to a broken, hurting world. Listen, and hear the balm of grace and peace God spread over us.
Dr. Sams takes the occasion of a recent election to dwell in the thought of who is really in control. And in reminding us that Jesus is King of kings, we are reminded of the eternal standards to which we're called. Now, more than ever, our light can shine brightly to a broken, hurting world. Listen, and hear the balm of grace and peace God spread over us.
Jonah, in his mission to Ninevah, arrives in Ninevah after a drama-filled journey in the opposite direction. When he gets there, he expects God to rain judgement down on the city. But God spares Ninevah, and Jonah is angry about it. God asks Jonah if his anger is righteous. Jonah has no answer for Him. But today's speaker, Clay Collier, has a theory: Jonah has forgotten something important. Because of that amnesia, his anger is misplaced. Listen, and hear how Jonah's thinking went wrong, and how we can avoid the same brokenness.
Jonah, in his mission to Ninevah, arrives in Ninevah after a drama-filled journey in the opposite direction. When he gets there, he expects God to rain judgement down on the city. But God spares Ninevah, and Jonah is angry about it. God asks Jonah if his anger is righteous. Jonah has no answer for Him. But today's speaker, Clay Collier, has a theory: Jonah has forgotten something important. Because of that amnesia, his anger is misplaced. Listen, and hear how Jonah's thinking went wrong, and how we can avoid the same brokenness.
The things that you find beautiful are the things in which you will find joy. Beauty is an end unto itself: it's self-justified. Through the crucible of Christ's death, we are given the Holy Spirit, and weeping turns to joy. While that's a basic Scriptural promise, our joy tends to drain out. Dr. Sams explores the joy that transcends the problems of our broken world, and reminds us that the Sabbath is a tool to remember God's goodness, so our joy is never fully drained. Hear, and remember. God is good, and we can rejoice in that.
The things that you find beautiful are the things in which you will find joy. Beauty is an end unto itself: it's self-justified. Through the crucible of Christ's death, we are given the Holy Spirit, and weeping turns to joy. While that's a basic Scriptural promise, our joy tends to drain out. Dr. Sams explores the joy that transcends the problems of our broken world, and reminds us that the Sabbath is a tool to remember God's goodness, so our joy is never fully drained. Hear, and remember. God is good, and we can rejoice in that.
The best experts are short on time. There can be long waits for their services. And restoration is a spiritual craft/art which requires an expert. Thankfully, God is not short on anything, and he has restoration expertise in abundance. God's model for Sabbath is to allow that restoration to flow through you into others. Christ modeled this in the ways He disrupted the Sabbath laws. Imagine if we all allowed God to work through us to restore each other... And don't miss the practicality bonus: Dr. Sams expounds on 3 ways of restoration.
The best experts are short on time. There can be long waits for their services. And restoration is a spiritual craft/art which requires an expert. Thankfully, God is not short on anything, and he has restoration expertise in abundance. God's model for Sabbath is to allow that restoration to flow through you into others. Christ modeled this in the ways He disrupted the Sabbath laws. Imagine if we all allowed God to work through us to restore each other... And don't miss the practicality bonus: Dr. Sams expounds on 3 ways of restoration.
Isaiah 48:22 tells us there's is no rest for the wicked. When we don't remember certain things, we fall back into wickedness. So we need to remember we are rescued. Remember God is good. God makes this point over and over to His people, Israel, in the Old Testament. As Dr. Sams continues to explore what Sabbath means to us today, he reminds us that the point of the Sabbath is to set aside special time to remember. Remember to Sabbath, and Sabbath to remember. Dr. Sams suggests practical ways you can enter into holy rest. Have a listen, and get a taste of God's rest.
Isaiah 48:22 tells us there's is no rest for the wicked. When we don't remember certain things, we fall back into wickedness. So we need to remember we are rescued. Remember God is good. God makes this point over and over to His people, Israel, in the Old Testament. As Dr. Sams continues to explore what Sabbath means to us today, he reminds us that the point of the Sabbath is to set aside special time to remember. Remember to Sabbath, and Sabbath to remember. Dr. Sams suggests practical ways you can enter into holy rest. Have a listen, and get a taste of God's rest.
What is work? What is rest? How does it intersect our life? Dr. Sams begins a new sermon series on Sabbath, one of the most misunderstood concepts of spiritual discipline. We generally understand work in the context of our culture, as our culture defines work. But our culture leads us to rest as the opposite work (by its own definition of "work"). But fact is, God created work. He began creation by doing work. And He took great joy in it. How do we follow that model? There's a pretty practical answer in Dr. Sams' message - just a click away.
What is work? What is rest? How does it intersect our life? Dr. Sams begins a new sermon series on Sabbath, one of the most misunderstood concepts of spiritual discipline. We generally understand work in the context of our culture, as our culture defines work. But our culture leads us to rest as the opposite work (by its own definition of "work"). But fact is, God created work. He began creation by doing work. And He took great joy in it. How do we follow that model? There's a pretty practical answer in Dr. Sams' message - just a click away.
In the concluding sermon on relationships, Dr. Sams masterfully boils down two basic approaches to relationships. Scripture has a great deal to say about each one, and, broken as we are, back and forth we go between the two. In fact, we all have experienced relationships where each approach has affected us. What is this moment-to-moment choice we all make in relationships, and how would Christ have us live in the midst of that choice? Have a listen to find out.
In the concluding sermon on relationships, Dr. Sams masterfully boils down two basic approaches to relationships. Scripture has a great deal to say about each one, and, broken as we are, back and forth we go between the two. In fact, we all have experienced relationships where each approach has affected us. What is this moment-to-moment choice we all make in relationships, and how would Christ have us live in the midst of that choice? Have a listen to find out.
Last week, Dr. Sams showed us a common pain cycle into which we've all fallen to various degrees. Continuing in his series on relationships, Dr. Sams explores a different cycle ruled by Christ. As Christ, in effect, referees the thoughts in our head that try to convince us we are not loved, we draw near to Him, and discover the opposite is true. In this way, Christ begins a peace cycle in us filled with forgiveness, humility, patience, gratitude, and ultimately love that overflows into our community. This is what we long for the church - that we can be conduits for His love, and share the peace [cycle] of Christ with each other.
Last week, Dr. Sams showed us a common pain cycle into which we've all fallen to various degrees. Continuing in his series on relationships, Dr. Sams explores a different cycle ruled by Christ. As Christ, in effect, referees the thoughts in our head that try to convince us we are not loved, we draw near to Him, and discover the opposite is true. In this way, Christ begins a peace cycle in us filled with forgiveness, humility, patience, gratitude, and ultimately love that overflows into our community. This is what we long for the church - that we can be conduits for His love, and share the peace [cycle] of Christ with each other.
We are pain-filled creatures. That pain moves us to develop certain behaviors we use to cope. Unfortunately, these tools often end up causing us more pain. Dr. Sams explores this cycle of pain: hard work for us fallen creatures, but it's work that illuminates the blind spots in our lives. Without seeing our weaknesses, we cannot submit of the pain to the Spirit, nor even develop a desire to change. Lend us a click, and hear how the good news informs our pain.
We are pain-filled creatures. That pain moves us to develop certain behaviors we use to cope. Unfortunately, these tools often end up causing us more pain. Dr. Sams explores this cycle of pain: hard work for us fallen creatures, but it's work that illuminates the blind spots in our lives. Without seeing our weaknesses, we cannot submit of the pain to the Spirit, nor even develop a desire to change. Lend us a click, and hear how the good news informs our pain.
God's Word is bigger and more powerful than we are. Today, Dr. Sams examines the relationship between Scripture and ourselves. We discover Scripture does not change. It changes us. Again: bigger, and more powerful. And yet, its gentle guidance releases us to become everything God wants us to be. Ironically, following Scripture sets us free. His Word is one of God's most precious gifts to us.
God's Word is bigger and more powerful than we are. Today, Dr. Sams examines the relationship between Scripture and ourselves. We discover Scripture does not change. It changes us. Again: bigger, and more powerful. And yet, its gentle guidance releases us to become everything God wants us to be. Ironically, following Scripture sets us free. His Word is one of God's most precious gifts to us.
Scripture is full of reference to caring for those disenfranchised by society. Pastor Mike Morgan puts the gospel to action in this message about compassion and injustice, and the challenging responsibility of the church to advocate for the disenfranchised. Addressing injustice is complicated and requires wisdom and patience that only God can provide. Listen, and the Gospel of Christ, our hope for the world.
Scripture is full of reference to caring for those disenfranchised by society. Pastor Mike Morgan puts the gospel to action in this message about compassion and injustice, and the challenging responsibility of the church to advocate for the disenfranchised. Addressing injustice is complicated and requires wisdom and patience that only God can provide. Listen, and the Gospel of Christ, our hope for the world.
We are so certain that we make our own destiny. No matter who or how we worship, we seem to gravitate back to the delusion that we are in control, and that we deserve reward for our efforts. But Scripture teaches us a different lesson. Dr. Sams shows us how Scripture teaches that God provides everything - literally, everything. It comes and goes at His will. And so what matters is how we allow Christ to influence our actions for His kingdom. As His righteousness supplants our righteousness, we cannot help but proclaim His truth and freedom.
We are so certain that we make our own destiny. No matter who or how we worship, we seem to gravitate back to the delusion that we are in control, and that we deserve reward for our efforts. But Scripture teaches us a different lesson. Dr. Sams shows us how Scripture teaches that God provides everything - literally, everything. It comes and goes at His will. And so what matters is how we allow Christ to influence our actions for His kingdom. As His righteousness supplants our righteousness, we cannot help but proclaim His truth and freedom.
Wisdom has been the hallmark of this sermon series. But we're just now coming to the heart of wisdom. Rev. Care Crawford's opens the scripture to show us God's wisdom for us: Get wisdom. You have to want it, and you have to want it enough to do what it takes to get it. You can mass a great deal of knowledge, but without reverent fear and willful obedience to Christ, wisdom and understanding escape us. And that is the work: seeking Christ. He is the ultimate source of wisdom. Draw near to God, and you draw near to wisdom.
Wisdom has been the hallmark of this sermon series. But we're just now coming to the heart of wisdom. Rev. Care Crawford's opens the scripture to show us God's wisdom for us: Get wisdom. You have to want it, and you have to want it enough to do what it takes to get it. You can mass a great deal of knowledge, but without reverent fear and willful obedience to Christ, wisdom and understanding escape us. And that is the work: seeking Christ. He is the ultimate source of wisdom. Draw near to God, and you draw near to wisdom.
We understand reputation in a certain way. In fact, our culture has come close to idolatry in terms of reputation. The culture when Proverbs was written was very different. Reputation could not be easily earned. It were given. Usually, a power greater than yourself grants it. Dr. Sams reminds us that when Jesus gives us a name, it is written in His eternal book of life. We are noted as His brother, God's children, and as such, we share in an inheritance that is good, eternal, and irrevocable. It's more than good news, it's the best news ever.
We understand reputation in a certain way. In fact, our culture has come close to idolatry in terms of reputation. The culture when Proverbs was written was very different. Reputation could not be easily earned. It were given. Usually, a power greater than yourself grants it. Dr. Sams reminds us that when Jesus gives us a name, it is written in His eternal book of life. We are noted as His brother, God's children, and as such, we share in an inheritance that is good, eternal, and irrevocable. It's more than good news, it's the best news ever.
Feedback is a terrifying thing. We are so vulnerable when someone gives us feedback. Maybe they're even critical of us. Terrifying. It's terrifying because historically, none of us have been very good at it. We use the opportunity to hurt each other. Rev. Keenan Barber shows us that becoming better and better is a process worked out in trusted relationships. And those relationships come slowly, over time, because trust doesn't ever come quickly. As we exercise the vulnerability to become better, we all become Christ to each other. Is that not the entire point of the Gospel?
Feedback is a terrifying thing. We are so vulnerable when someone gives us feedback. Maybe they're even critical of us. Terrifying. It's terrifying because historically, none of us have been very good at it. We use the opportunity to hurt each other. Rev. Keenan Barber shows us that becoming better and better is a process worked out in trusted relationships. And those relationships come slowly, over time, because trust doesn't ever come quickly. As we exercise the vulnerability to become better, we all become Christ to each other. Is that not the entire point of the Gospel?
Friendship turns into kinship when adversity is shared. In companionship, God takes simple life events and magnifies them into the foundation for relationship. Considering this through the lens of Christ's sacrifice, we discover that Christ is the ultimate friend. Our own friendships are reflections of that perfection.
Friendship turns into kinship when adversity is shared. In companionship, God takes simple life events and magnifies them into the foundation for relationship. Considering this through the lens of Christ's sacrifice, we discover that Christ is the ultimate friend. Our own friendships are reflections of that perfection.
Personally, this sermon arrived in my life with a divine timing. It is a potent, cutting, relevant truth to us. Dr. Sams shows us how we are all fools, highlighting three varieties. The world gets the best of us consistently. It makes fools of us, and our pursuit of wisdom sometimes seems fruitless. But as we draw near to God, we learn to become wise in an eternal sense - which seems foolish in the eyes of the world. Would you listen, and see if this is a word as powerful for you as it was for me?
Personally, this sermon arrived in my life with a divine timing. It is a potent, cutting, relevant truth to us. Dr. Sams shows us how we are all fools, highlighting three varieties. The world gets the best of us consistently. It makes fools of us, and our pursuit of wisdom sometimes seems fruitless. But as we draw near to God, we learn to become wise in an eternal sense - which seems foolish in the eyes of the world. Would you listen, and see if this is a word as powerful for you as it was for me?
Success. Suffering. Achievement. Adversity. Wisdom. Folly. Invariably, these are not things that spring up from nothing. They are cultivated by how we live our lives. Dr. Sams explores wisdom today, and shows us how the character inside us is built by what we worship. We worship Jesus, we get Jesus. We worship TV, we get TV. The automatic things are just there. If we cultivate Jesus, we have peace in all circumstances, whether positive or negative. Listen, and hear Christ's promise to be with us, no matter what we face.
Success. Suffering. Achievement. Adversity. Wisdom. Folly. Invariably, these are not things that spring up from nothing. They are cultivated by how we live our lives. Dr. Sams explores wisdom today, and shows us how the character inside us is built by what we worship. We worship Jesus, we get Jesus. We worship TV, we get TV. The automatic things are just there. If we cultivate Jesus, we have peace in all circumstances, whether positive or negative. Listen, and hear Christ's promise to be with us, no matter what we face.
In the 3rd installment of our Summer Cinema series, Rev. Mike Morgan help us to understand the role of confession and fellowship in embodying mercy to one another. Sin loves darkness. When it is exposed to light, healing begins. This is another telling of the goodness of the gospel. We are not slaves to sin. We are forgiven, and there is no need to fear confession.
In the 3rd installment of our Summer Cinema series, Rev. Mike Morgan help us to understand the role of confession and fellowship in embodying mercy to one another. Sin loves darkness. When it is exposed to light, healing begins. This is another telling of the goodness of the gospel. We are not slaves to sin. We are forgiven, and there is no need to fear confession.
In our day and age, western culture has outsourced many parenting responsibilities. We expose our youth to many sources of wisdom, instead of imparting God's wisdom to them. Scripture shows us that love & relationship lay the groundwork for imparting wisdom. When the world rocks our kids, the way they will cope depends on the wisdom imparted to them. If the right sources of wisdom are in place, they will thrive. As an aside, if you are interested in being a mentor, call us. We would love to help you develop that gift. In the meantime, listen, and hear the hope of Father's Day: we have an unfailing source of wisdom.
In our day and age, western culture has outsourced many parenting responsibilities. We expose our youth to many sources of wisdom, instead of imparting God's wisdom to them. Scripture shows us that love & relationship lay the groundwork for imparting wisdom. When the world rocks our kids, the way they will cope depends on the wisdom imparted to them. If the right sources of wisdom are in place, they will thrive. As an aside, if you are interested in being a mentor, call us. We would love to help you develop that gift. In the meantime, listen, and hear the hope of Father's Day: we have an unfailing source of wisdom.
In the introduction to the series, Summer Cinema: God's Wisdom Through Solomon, Dr. Sams reminds us that God's wisdom is eternal, and therefore shows up not only in the times when Proverbs was written, but also in our modern-day stories. There is no culture where God's wisdom doesn't apply. And so, in the next few weeks, our pastors will take us through that journey, and show us that the kingdom of heaven is as relevant now as it ever was.
In the introduction to the series, Summer Cinema: God's Wisdom Through Solomon, Dr. Sams reminds us that God's wisdom is eternal, and therefore shows up not only in the times when Proverbs was written, but also in our modern-day stories. There is no culture where God's wisdom doesn't apply. And so, in the next few weeks, our pastors will take us through that journey, and show us that the kingdom of heaven is as relevant now as it ever was.
Knowing God is different from knowing about God. At some point in any relationship with God, a Christian eventually has a transition from head-knowledge about God to heart-knowledge of God - a full integration of God into your life. Why is that important? When you begin to know God... really know God, you begin to feel the power of His love, His grace, His mercy, His healing, and most importantly, you begin to feel hope. Knowing God more will change your life.
Knowing God is different from knowing about God. At some point in any relationship with God, a Christian eventually has a transition from head-knowledge about God to heart-knowledge of God - a full integration of God into your life. Why is that important? When you begin to know God... really know God, you begin to feel the power of His love, His grace, His mercy, His healing, and most importantly, you begin to feel hope. Knowing God more will change your life.
The gate-keeping attribute of God is holiness. All the other attributes rely on it. Without holiness, none of them are meaningful. Once you experience God's holiness, God's love, mercy, justice, grace, glory, etc. all become more than meaningful. They become inspiring. Dr. Sams challenges us today with this truth: we are nothing without God, and with God, we have all we need.
The gate-keeping attribute of God is holiness. All the other attributes rely on it. Without holiness, none of them are meaningful. Once you experience God's holiness, God's love, mercy, justice, grace, glory, etc. all become more than meaningful. They become inspiring. Dr. Sams challenges us today with this truth: we are nothing without God, and with God, we have all we need.
Our western culture tells us we are powerful. It leads us to believe we can have what we want, so long as we're willing to give what's needed to get it. However, this is exactly the opposite of how God wants us to live. In fact, it is so contrary, you can call this desire to control our lives "original sin". Dr. Sams brings us to this cultural crossroads. How are we to live? Listen, and see how giving up your desires is the key to getting something even better.
Our western culture tells us we are powerful. It leads us to believe we can have what we want, so long as we're willing to give what's needed to get it. However, this is exactly the opposite of how God wants us to live. In fact, it is so contrary, you can call this desire to control our lives "original sin". Dr. Sams brings us to this cultural crossroads. How are we to live? Listen, and see how giving up your desires is the key to getting something even better.
Dr. Sams uses Psalm 139 to illustrate the human experience of realizing that God is everywhere, and that no one can go anywhere where God is absent. Before you take comfort in His presence everywhere, you must first accept His presence everywhere. Picture someone who knows everything about you and has ultimate power. It is overwhelming and threatening. But when you push further into relationship with God, you realize his adoration of us, His Son's suffer for us, colors all of that ultimate power in love. It is in darkness where we are most challenged. Would you listen, and hear the enduring hope of the gospel? It is an everlasting spring of life.
Dr. Sams uses Psalm 139 to illustrate the human experience of realizing that God is everywhere, and that no one can go anywhere where God is absent. Before you take comfort in His presence everywhere, you must first accept His presence everywhere. Picture someone who knows everything about you and has ultimate power. It is overwhelming and threatening. But when you push further into relationship with God, you realize his adoration of us, His Son's suffer for us, colors all of that ultimate power in love. It is in darkness where we are most challenged. Would you listen, and hear the enduring hope of the gospel? It is an everlasting spring of life.
God is a god that loves all of creation. He is also a god with special love for those who worship Him. Both of these loves are necessary, and perfect. Dr. Sams unpacks this idea for us, kicking off a new sermon series, "Long Exposure". When you look at the whole of God through a "long exposure" filter of love, you begin to understand everything about who God is, why God is the way He is, and why scripture teaches us as it does. It is all rooted in His perfect love for us.
God is a god that loves all of creation. He is also a god with special love for those who worship Him. Both of these loves are necessary, and perfect. Dr. Sams unpacks this idea for us, kicking off a new sermon series, "Long Exposure". When you look at the whole of God through a "long exposure" filter of love, you begin to understand everything about who God is, why God is the way He is, and why scripture teaches us as it does. It is all rooted in His perfect love for us.
Bel Air Church has now existed for over 60 years. On this very special day, we celebrate what God has done through our congregation through the past 6 decades. Dr. Sams opens the Word to remind us how faithful Jesus is to provide for our every need, regardless of the circumstances we see around us. Though we cannot see eternity, God can, and His love extends even to those who cannot see. Would you watch and hear the hope that we know will extend the next 60 years, and even into eternity.
Bel Air Church has now existed for over 60 years. On this very special day, we celebrate what God has done through our congregation through the past 6 decades. Dr. Sams opens the Word to remind us how faithful Jesus is to provide for our every need, regardless of the circumstances we see around us. Though we cannot see eternity, God can, and His love extends even to those who cannot see. Would you watch and hear the hope that we know will extend the next 60 years, and even into eternity.
Our very own Jay and Katherine Wolf bring us the Word of God in a unique and inspiring way. In 2008, with Katherine and Jay raising a 6-month-old baby, Katherine was afflicted with a massive brain stem stroke. Initially, it was unclear whether or not she was going to live. While she survived, she was left physically disabled with a never-ending list of challenges ahead. There are many places in their story where either one of them could have given up hope. The Wolfs show us what it means to depend on Jesus in ways most of us never consider, and that He is faithful to redeem our suffering into hope multiplied. Watch here, and for more detail, buy their book, "Hope Heals".
Our very own Jay and Katherine Wolf bring us the Word of God in a unique and inspiring way. In 2008, with Katherine and Jay raising a 6-month-old baby, Katherine was afflicted with a massive brain stem stroke. Initially, it was unclear whether or not she was going to live. While she survived, she was left physically disabled with a never-ending list of challenges ahead. There are many places in their story where either one of them could have given up hope. The Wolfs show us what it means to depend on Jesus in ways most of us never consider, and that He is faithful to redeem our suffering into hope multiplied. Watch here, and for more detail, buy their book, "Hope Heals".
I've not met a more happily fearless person than Benny Prasad. From our first communications, he proved friendly and intriguing. As a world traveler, he's full of amazing stories of sharing Christ's Gospel to those in the world most hostile toward it. I asked Benny if he feels fear in these situations and simply overcomes it with bravery. He told me "no," that once you're through being afraid of death, you become free to share Christ with anyone, no matter how hostile to Jesus they may be. He truly lives free from fear. It's a work only the Holy Spirit can do - Benny is an astonishing creation of our Lord. But don't take my word for it. Watch! And hear how Benny trusts God implicitly, to the point of facing possible death, while tapping into God's presence to derive his security. Oh, and he has a really cool guitar.
I've not met a more happily fearless person than Benny Prasad. From our first communications, he proved friendly and intriguing. As a world traveler, he's full of amazing stories of sharing Christ's Gospel to those in the world most hostile toward it. I asked Benny if he feels fear in these situations and simply overcomes it with bravery. He told me "no," that once you're through being afraid of death, you become free to share Christ with anyone, no matter how hostile to Jesus they may be. He truly lives free from fear. It's a work only the Holy Spirit can do - Benny is an astonishing creation of our Lord. But don't take my word for it. Watch! And hear how Benny trusts God implicitly, to the point of facing possible death, while tapping into God's presence to derive his security. Oh, and he has a really cool guitar.
Are you hungry for solid & compelling evidence that God exists? You're in the right place. Our guest speaker, Dr. Hugh Ross, is an astrophysicist, theologian, and president of Reasons To Believe. Dr. Ross's dual brilliance in both astrophysics and theology make for a compelling presentation of evidence for the existence of a God who created us, loves us, and has done work to redeem us. Watch & be amazed at how evident and full of wonder our Lord is.
Are you hungry for solid & compelling evidence that God exists? You're in the right place. Our guest speaker, Dr. Hugh Ross, is an astrophysicist, theologian, and president of Reasons To Believe. Dr. Ross's dual brilliance in both astrophysics and theology make for a compelling presentation of evidence for the existence of a God who created us, loves us, and has done work to redeem us. Watch & be amazed at how evident and full of wonder our Lord is.
The message this particular Sunday is simple gospel truth with very tangible impact. Rev. Andy Bales from Union Rescue Mission shows us how we can all open ourselves to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit simply by choosing to see Jesus in others, regardless of our first impressions. As you begin to see Jesus in the people you serve, you serve Jesus, particularly when the one you serve struggles to meet their own basic needs. Christ Himself told us this truth quite plainly as recorded in Matthew 25. It is a significant challenge from Christ to all believers, but the reward is immense and eternal.
The message this particular Sunday is simple gospel truth with very tangible impact. Rev. Andy Bales from Union Rescue Mission shows us how we can all open ourselves to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit simply by choosing to see Jesus in others, regardless of our first impressions. As you begin to see Jesus in the people you serve, you serve Jesus, particularly when the one you serve struggles to meet their own basic needs. Christ Himself told us this truth quite plainly as recorded in Matthew 25. It is a significant challenge from Christ to all believers, but the reward is immense and eternal.
In his Easter Sunday sermon, Dr. Sams reminds us of the value of knowing for sure the full meaning of Christ's death and resurrection.
In his Easter Sunday sermon, Dr. Sams reminds us of the value of knowing for sure the full meaning of Christ's death and resurrection.
Building on last week's sermon, Dr. Sams shows us why God chooses to take up his residence inside of us, both singularly, and corporately. Using the analogy of a wedding, Christ's work is one of making the church beautiful. His death pays the price for our sin, making us perfect in God's eyes. Just as a bride looks perfect on her wedding day, so we look in God's eyes. Hear the good news today: we are made enough, because Christ is enough.
Building on last week's sermon, Dr. Sams shows us why God chooses to take up his residence inside of us, both singularly, and corporately. Using the analogy of a wedding, Christ's work is one of making the church beautiful. His death pays the price for our sin, making us perfect in God's eyes. Just as a bride looks perfect on her wedding day, so we look in God's eyes. Hear the good news today: we are made enough, because Christ is enough.
God is a picky resident. That doesn't mean He won't move in. It just means He will make His home the way He wants it. Thing is: you are His home. No, not you-you, more like, yous. All of us. We (plural) are the temple (singular) of God. And Jesus - the only human in which God's Spirit comfortably dwelled, makes the way for the Spirit to move into all of us. This is what makes church crucial to a Christian. We need the community of believers to fully engage with the Spirit of God. And it is available where ever 2 or 3 are gathered in Jesus' name. Hear this gospel message, especially if you are a believer looking for a church home.
God is a picky resident. That doesn't mean He won't move in. It just means He will make His home the way He wants it. Thing is: you are His home. No, not you-you, more like, yous. All of us. We (plural) are the temple (singular) of God. And Jesus - the only human in which God's Spirit comfortably dwelled, makes the way for the Spirit to move into all of us. This is what makes church crucial to a Christian. We need the community of believers to fully engage with the Spirit of God. And it is available where ever 2 or 3 are gathered in Jesus' name. Hear this gospel message, especially if you are a believer looking for a church home.
So much of embracing the kingdom involves flipping your perspective. In America, we are generally takers. Since our culture encourages and rewards those who are good at acquiring things, our culture naturally also encourages and reward those who are good at taking. This extends into our view of the kingdom of God. But as Christ's Spirit moves and changes us, our perspective is disrupted. We come to a crossroads. This greatly informs how we behave in relationship to God and one another. Listen, and hear how you can enter into the family of God in a new way.
So much of embracing the kingdom involves flipping your perspective. In America, we are generally takers. Since our culture encourages and rewards those who are good at acquiring things, our culture naturally also encourages and reward those who are good at taking. This extends into our view of the kingdom of God. But as Christ's Spirit moves and changes us, our perspective is disrupted. We come to a crossroads. This greatly informs how we behave in relationship to God and one another. Listen, and hear how you can enter into the family of God in a new way.
A long time ago, being in God's presence was so exclusive, that only one person a year was allowed into the place where ancient Israelites believed God dwelled. And that person (the high priest), risked their life to enter. Any misstep in ritual cleansing would result in certain death. The Israelites believed this so fervently, that a rope was tied around the priest's ankle, so he could be dragged out should he perish, sparing anyone else from entering to retrieve him. The exclusivity of entering into God's presence is greater than any bottlenecked entryway we can fathom. We have come to take it for granted. So hear the gospel. Be reminded that Christ has opened the door, and has left each of us an open seat at God's eternal banqueting table.
A long time ago, being in God's presence was so exclusive, that only one person a year was allowed into the place where ancient Israelites believed God dwelled. And that person (the high priest), risked their life to enter. Any misstep in ritual cleansing would result in certain death. The Israelites believed this so fervently, that a rope was tied around the priest's ankle, so he could be dragged out should he perish, sparing anyone else from entering to retrieve him. The exclusivity of entering into God's presence is greater than any bottlenecked entryway we can fathom. We have come to take it for granted. So hear the gospel. Be reminded that Christ has opened the door, and has left each of us an open seat at God's eternal banqueting table.
In the second sermon in "The Church Is..." series, Dr. Sams extends the Apostle Paul's analogy of the Church being one body with many parts. Identifying five medical ailments that affect body parts, the analogy helps us identify what's broken about church. And identifying the problem is sometimes the bulk of problem solving. The challenge to become a healthy body involves all of us. Would you have a listen, and see what you can do to help heal the body of Christ's church.
In the second sermon in "The Church Is..." series, Dr. Sams extends the Apostle Paul's analogy of the Church being one body with many parts. Identifying five medical ailments that affect body parts, the analogy helps us identify what's broken about church. And identifying the problem is sometimes the bulk of problem solving. The challenge to become a healthy body involves all of us. Would you have a listen, and see what you can do to help heal the body of Christ's church.
Rev. Bill Crawford from Water's Edge Church joins us to help launch a new sermon series. Drawing from Acts and Ephesians, Bill reminds us how precious the gift of the church is. God's Holy Spirit rests on His people, both individually, and corporately. And it isn't a privileged gift. It is equally measured to all who accept Christ. The church exists to provide us with a community that reminds us that God is with us, in us, for us, and through us (to each other). The church is the gospel in action.
Rev. Bill Crawford from Water's Edge Church joins us to help launch a new sermon series. Drawing from Acts and Ephesians, Bill reminds us how precious the gift of the church is. God's Holy Spirit rests on His people, both individually, and corporately. And it isn't a privileged gift. It is equally measured to all who accept Christ. The church exists to provide us with a community that reminds us that God is with us, in us, for us, and through us (to each other). The church is the gospel in action.
Some of our most beloved Christian truths revolve around God imparting His Spirit onto the community of believers known as The Church. Inaugurating a new sermon series, Dr. Sams reminds us of this basic truth: God is in us, and together, we are empowered to encourage each other with God's promises, for God has adopted us into His kingdom making us brothers and sisters of each other and of Christ Himself. His kingdom never falters, never fails, and we are part of it.
Some of our most beloved Christian truths revolve around God imparting His Spirit onto the community of believers known as The Church. Inaugurating a new sermon series, Dr. Sams reminds us of this basic truth: God is in us, and together, we are empowered to encourage each other with God's promises, for God has adopted us into His kingdom making us brothers and sisters of each other and of Christ Himself. His kingdom never falters, never fails, and we are part of it.
What do we do with the gifts we are given? This wrap up of the "Learn. Be. Do." series by Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley, explores not what we do with the gifts, but how much we appreciate them. When we celebrate the gifts only for what they can give us, and not for who gave them, we end up bitter and fearful toward the giver of gifts. This plays out beautifully in the parable of the talents Jesus tells his disciples. How do we avoid being lost in our own fear, greed, and resentment? Have a listen. There is an answer.
What do we do with the gifts we are given? This wrap up of the "Learn. Be. Do." series by Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley, explores not what we do with the gifts, but how much we appreciate them. When we celebrate the gifts only for what they can give us, and not for who gave them, we end up bitter and fearful toward the giver of gifts. This plays out beautifully in the parable of the talents Jesus tells his disciples. How do we avoid being lost in our own fear, greed, and resentment? Have a listen. There is an answer.
It is easy to miss the blessings Christ has for us. We regularly hold ourselves back from the Holy Spirit. Sometimes, we're arrogant enough to think we can do it ourselves - that we can somehow offer up whatever it takes to gain a better life, even unto eternity. We cannot. But hear the gospel, and receive its good news. You are set free. Lean into God's plan for your life, and receive blessings you could never imagine. There is a wedding banquet. All are invited.
It is easy to miss the blessings Christ has for us. We regularly hold ourselves back from the Holy Spirit. Sometimes, we're arrogant enough to think we can do it ourselves - that we can somehow offer up whatever it takes to gain a better life, even unto eternity. We cannot. But hear the gospel, and receive its good news. You are set free. Lean into God's plan for your life, and receive blessings you could never imagine. There is a wedding banquet. All are invited.
We know what rock bottom looks like. When foolish choices are made, the predictable drama of a soul lead toward destruction follows. But equally destructive is the way of resentment. When we choose to keep score, to count the blessings someone else receives against the ones we don't, sin will likewise consume us and lead us to the same destruction. The truth is, we are all lost, and need the power of God to find our way. Dr. Sams reminds us today of a core gospel truth: God the Father invites you into true love. Will you allow resentment lead you to miss the opportunity of a lifetime? Or will you lean into God's love for His children?
We know what rock bottom looks like. When foolish choices are made, the predictable drama of a soul lead toward destruction follows. But equally destructive is the way of resentment. When we choose to keep score, to count the blessings someone else receives against the ones we don't, sin will likewise consume us and lead us to the same destruction. The truth is, we are all lost, and need the power of God to find our way. Dr. Sams reminds us today of a core gospel truth: God the Father invites you into true love. Will you allow resentment lead you to miss the opportunity of a lifetime? Or will you lean into God's love for His children?
Sacrifice is the emptying of yourself for the filling of someone else. But what if the one sacrificially loving you is your mortal enemy? On the day before Martin Luther King Day, Dr. Sams explores what it means to love and be loved by your enemy. The Gospel enables us to perfectly love, as we submit our lives to the Holy Spirit.
Sacrifice is the emptying of yourself for the filling of someone else. But what if the one sacrificially loving you is your mortal enemy? On the day before Martin Luther King Day, Dr. Sams explores what it means to love and be loved by your enemy. The Gospel enables us to perfectly love, as we submit our lives to the Holy Spirit.
Dr. Sams takes his sermon time today to remind us of one of the best aspects of the Gospel. We are completely and totally incapable of doing enough to earn God's good graces. Yet, we still try. And as a culture, we elevate the value of achievement to such levels that we carry those standards over into our relationship with others, and ultimately, our relationship with God. The Gospel sets us free from those chains of expectation. Christ provides a covering for us. Hear the good news: Christ is enough, and with Christ, we are enough, unconditionally.
Dr. Sams takes his sermon time today to remind us of one of the best aspects of the Gospel. We are completely and totally incapable of doing enough to earn God's good graces. Yet, we still try. And as a culture, we elevate the value of achievement to such levels that we carry those standards over into our relationship with others, and ultimately, our relationship with God. The Gospel sets us free from those chains of expectation. Christ provides a covering for us. Hear the good news: Christ is enough, and with Christ, we are enough, unconditionally.
We Christians do good deeds. Despite our brokenness, God breaks through and ministers to His creation through us. However, brokenness operates within our motivation. The Lord looks at the heart. So we must ask ourselves: Do we serve Christ for His pleasure, or for our own pleasure? When the storm hits, if we serve God for our own pleasure, we build our house on sand, and we are blown away by doubt. Dr. Sams presents a simple tool to wrap around our lives, so that we are persistently connected to God, and building a house on rock.
We Christians do good deeds. Despite our brokenness, God breaks through and ministers to His creation through us. However, brokenness operates within our motivation. The Lord looks at the heart. So we must ask ourselves: Do we serve Christ for His pleasure, or for our own pleasure? When the storm hits, if we serve God for our own pleasure, we build our house on sand, and we are blown away by doubt. Dr. Sams presents a simple tool to wrap around our lives, so that we are persistently connected to God, and building a house on rock.
As Dr. Sams explores today, Scripture teaches us that relationships matter much more than we think. In fact, we are made for relationships. We require them. Having relationships is a fulfillment of the both the eternal glory to which we aspire, and the image of God in which we're made. Now, of course, our relationships are touched by our brokenness, just as everything else is. But would you listen, and accept the challenge this Advent season on how to reorient your relationships in the way God would have you? If so, I personally guarantee a Merrier Christmas.
As Dr. Sams explores today, Scripture teaches us that relationships matter much more than we think. In fact, we are made for relationships. We require them. Having relationships is a fulfillment of the both the eternal glory to which we aspire, and the image of God in which we're made. Now, of course, our relationships are touched by our brokenness, just as everything else is. But would you listen, and accept the challenge this Advent season on how to reorient your relationships in the way God would have you? If so, I personally guarantee a Merrier Christmas.
Food and Creation? Yes, there is a connection. A big one: all our food comes from it. Photosynthesis. Pollination. Decomposition. Water cycles. Digestion. Reproduction. All these elements are parts of God's creation and without them, we have no food, and we die. But more than that, there's an intimate connection between food, creation, and the glory of Christ in which we'll one day share. And even more than that is the most compelling reason to take eating more seriously than we do: God's Word prescribes a specific approach. If you're like me, taking food for granted (spoiler alert: so does Dr. Sams), you need to listen to this message. It will change the way you think about food, and therefore your life.
Food and Creation? Yes, there is a connection. A big one: all our food comes from it. Photosynthesis. Pollination. Decomposition. Water cycles. Digestion. Reproduction. All these elements are parts of God's creation and without them, we have no food, and we die. But more than that, there's an intimate connection between food, creation, and the glory of Christ in which we'll one day share. And even more than that is the most compelling reason to take eating more seriously than we do: God's Word prescribes a specific approach. If you're like me, taking food for granted (spoiler alert: so does Dr. Sams), you need to listen to this message. It will change the way you think about food, and therefore your life.
Dr. Sams unpacks John's image of Heaven from the Book of Revelation. Heaven is not disembodied; earthly work and play carry over to Paradise. In fact, just as the lines are blurred between heaven and earth, so are the lines blurred between work and play. Watch or listen, and see how Christ's second Advent affects the first Advent we celebrate at the end of every year.
Dr. Sams unpacks John's image of Heaven from the Book of Revelation. Heaven is not disembodied; earthly work and play carry over to Paradise. In fact, just as the lines are blurred between heaven and earth, so are the lines blurred between work and play. Watch or listen, and see how Christ's second Advent affects the first Advent we celebrate at the end of every year.
Eternity is not the alternative to this earth, it is the redemption & restoration of this earth. In the book of Revelation, when John uses the word "new", there is no implication of discard of the old. More accurately, the old is made new, and so dramatically that there is no trace of "old" left. Believers live in the middle of that transition. We are effectively suspended between heaven and earth. As such, we get tastes of heaven here, on earth. How is that possible? And what exactly is heaven anyway? Click "watch" to explore those questions today with Rev. Mike Morgan, in his inaugural sermon as an ordained pastor at Bel Air Church. We celebrate Mike joining our pastoral team!
Eternity is not the alternative to this earth, it is the redemption & restoration of this earth. In the book of Revelation, when John uses the word "new", there is no implication of discard of the old. More accurately, the old is made new, and so dramatically that there is no trace of "old" left. Believers live in the middle of that transition. We are effectively suspended between heaven and earth. As such, we get tastes of heaven here, on earth. How is that possible? And what exactly is heaven anyway? Click "watch" to explore those questions today with Rev. Mike Morgan, in his inaugural sermon as an ordained pastor at Bel Air Church. We celebrate Mike joining our pastoral team!
The church is Christ's hands and feet to our broken world. On this special Global Sunday, three members of our very own congregation were interviewed by Dr. Sams. They shared stories of healing, reconciliation, and God's power to save from places like Haiti, Columbia, and the Congo. That probably would have been enough hope for one Sunday. But there was more. Jocelyn White from International Justice Mission brought us stories of the gospel in action all over the globe. If you want to hear about the power of prayer, God's power to save, and how people can take tangible parts in solving God-sized problems, you need to see this.
The church is Christ's hands and feet to our broken world. On this special Global Sunday, three members of our very own congregation were interviewed by Dr. Sams. They shared stories of healing, reconciliation, and God's power to save from places like Haiti, Columbia, and the Congo. That probably would have been enough hope for one Sunday. But there was more. Jocelyn White from International Justice Mission brought us stories of the gospel in action all over the globe. If you want to hear about the power of prayer, God's power to save, and how people can take tangible parts in solving God-sized problems, you need to see this.
Brokenness can consume us. Our physical eyes fill us with stories that can weigh us down so much we're unable to move. Now it's not that bad all the time, but if we see what we think we see, the world is very sad, and very broken. But it is not forever. There exists another reality, a forever reality, one we cannot see with our physical eyes, filled with an eternal celebration meant for us, and though we cannot see it, it goes with us everywhere. We do not sojourn through this broken world alone, even if we are physically alone. We are citizens of heaven. That truth affects everything. How? Would you listen, and hear God's truth through Dr. Sams about what we are to do with this alternate reality we can belong to forever.
Brokenness can consume us. Our physical eyes fill us with stories that can weigh us down so much we're unable to move. Now it's not that bad all the time, but if we see what we think we see, the world is very sad, and very broken. But it is not forever. There exists another reality, a forever reality, one we cannot see with our physical eyes, filled with an eternal celebration meant for us, and though we cannot see it, it goes with us everywhere. We do not sojourn through this broken world alone, even if we are physically alone. We are citizens of heaven. That truth affects everything. How? Would you listen, and hear God's truth through Dr. Sams about what we are to do with this alternate reality we can belong to forever.
Once again, Dr. Sams examines one of our core values, impact, and contrasts the true essence of it with what our culture would have us believe impact is. Our culture gives credit only to those who break through, those who achieve "success" by leveraging the efforts of many others. But in reality, we all cause impact. We affect each other - for the better and for the worse. The question is one of responsibility: how do we wield this tool of impact? Do we use it for eternal or non-eternal purposes? You are God's indispensable workmanship, and therefore designed for eternal impact. Would you listen, and learn how you can embrace that? It is the gospel, put to work.
Once again, Dr. Sams examines one of our core values, impact, and contrasts the true essence of it with what our culture would have us believe impact is. Our culture gives credit only to those who break through, those who achieve "success" by leveraging the efforts of many others. But in reality, we all cause impact. We affect each other - for the better and for the worse. The question is one of responsibility: how do we wield this tool of impact? Do we use it for eternal or non-eternal purposes? You are God's indispensable workmanship, and therefore designed for eternal impact. Would you listen, and learn how you can embrace that? It is the gospel, put to work.
We have co-opted the word "community" to mean something less than it should be. Our culture tells us that community primarily consists of those like us: fellow workers, or artists, or hobbyists... even believers... and other classes we shouldn't use to divide up communities like race, or socio-economic status. None of this has anything to do with what Scripture teaches us about community. So what is community? Dr. Sams opens the Scriptures to dig in to the challenge o. Have a listen to be reminded of the sense of community our culture has missed.
We have co-opted the word "community" to mean something less than it should be. Our culture tells us that community primarily consists of those like us: fellow workers, or artists, or hobbyists... even believers... and other classes we shouldn't use to divide up communities like race, or socio-economic status. None of this has anything to do with what Scripture teaches us about community. So what is community? Dr. Sams opens the Scriptures to dig in to the challenge o. Have a listen to be reminded of the sense of community our culture has missed.
What does it mean to be healthy? We assume Scripture can only speak to our spiritual health, and that this is of paramount importance. But scripture isn't limited to spiritual health. In fact, many stories in the bible inform how we are to live, or more accurately, to thrive. Christ wants us to have life and life to the full. How does that work itself out? Dr. Sams explores exactly that question. Would you listen, and join our journey to become healthy, in every way we can be.
What does it mean to be healthy? We assume Scripture can only speak to our spiritual health, and that this is of paramount importance. But scripture isn't limited to spiritual health. In fact, many stories in the bible inform how we are to live, or more accurately, to thrive. Christ wants us to have life and life to the full. How does that work itself out? Dr. Sams explores exactly that question. Would you listen, and join our journey to become healthy, in every way we can be.
Often we confuse courage with bravery, and there is definitely some overlap. But courage and bravery aren't really the same thing. Particularly when looking at Christ, bravery and courage are not at all the same thing. Dr. Sams shows us in Scripture what it means to be courageous. Within the lesson is a little gem of truth that can help us unlock the courage in our own hearts. Don't miss it! Have a listen.
Often we confuse courage with bravery, and there is definitely some overlap. But courage and bravery aren't really the same thing. Particularly when looking at Christ, bravery and courage are not at all the same thing. Dr. Sams shows us in Scripture what it means to be courageous. Within the lesson is a little gem of truth that can help us unlock the courage in our own hearts. Don't miss it! Have a listen.
Expounding on the first of five values we are choosing to emphasize at Bel Air Church, Dr. Sams shows us the difference this week between cultural hospitality and Christian hospitality. Check out this introductory video here:
Expounding on the first of five values we are choosing to emphasize at Bel Air Church, Dr. Sams shows us the difference this week between cultural hospitality and Christian hospitality. Check out this introductory video here:
More than the start of a new sermon series, Dr. Sams begins a new chapter in the history of Bel Air Church. Revealing 5 biblical values to help our church follow Jesus everyday, everywhere, with everyone, Dr. Sams exhorts us to engage with our church in new ways - in ways that will help us become more like the family of God. This is a new beginning. Would you watch and ponder how you can join us on the journey? Best blessings.
More than the start of a new sermon series, Dr. Sams begins a new chapter in the history of Bel Air Church. Revealing 5 biblical values to help our church follow Jesus everyday, everywhere, with everyone, Dr. Sams exhorts us to engage with our church in new ways - in ways that will help us become more like the family of God. This is a new beginning. Would you watch and ponder how you can join us on the journey? Best blessings.
David and Goliath is one of the best known stories in the bible. As a young shepherd boy, David presents himself to King Saul as Israel's champion against Goliath, the champion of the Philistines. A giant soldier, arrogant, and seemingly impossible to defeat in battle, Goliath taunted Israel for weeks. We know David defeats him, calling upon the name of the Lord as his primary aid. But this is more than a bedtime story. Dr. Sams shows us how this narrative informs our own struggles, both known and yet to be known. Would you watch, and allow your imagination to reach beyond what is possible for us, to what is only possible for God.
David and Goliath is one of the best known stories in the bible. As a young shepherd boy, David presents himself to King Saul as Israel's champion against Goliath, the champion of the Philistines. A giant soldier, arrogant, and seemingly impossible to defeat in battle, Goliath taunted Israel for weeks. We know David defeats him, calling upon the name of the Lord as his primary aid. But this is more than a bedtime story. Dr. Sams shows us how this narrative informs our own struggles, both known and yet to be known. Would you watch, and allow your imagination to reach beyond what is possible for us, to what is only possible for God.
What a super-quirky miracle God worked when Joshua's army conquered Jericho. God's ways are so much higher than our own. We bring our own agendas and desires to our life situations, then wonder if God is on our side. Dr. Sams reminds us that there is but one proper response when we wonder about God's position on our matters. I could tell you, but the good Dr. Sams says it so much better than I could. Would you watch?
What a super-quirky miracle God worked when Joshua's army conquered Jericho. God's ways are so much higher than our own. We bring our own agendas and desires to our life situations, then wonder if God is on our side. Dr. Sams reminds us that there is but one proper response when we wonder about God's position on our matters. I could tell you, but the good Dr. Sams says it so much better than I could. Would you watch?
Furnaces are real. None of us are ever going to face the fiery furnace of Nebuchadnezzar. But almost all of us will face challenges that drag us down further into despair than any other event before it. Loss is the furnace of today. And how do we overcome loss? How do we understand the furnace of suffering and loss when our spiritual convictions mandate we live in joyful praise of God? Hear the good news about how God redeems loss.
For those who have been asking to hear more about Ashley Smith’s “furnace experience,” the story of God’s hope and protection is told boldly in the movie, “Captive,” in theaters this month.
Furnaces are real. None of us are ever going to face the fiery furnace of Nebuchadnezzar. But almost all of us will face challenges that drag us down further into despair than any other event before it. Loss is the furnace of today. And how do we overcome loss? How do we understand the furnace of suffering and loss when our spiritual convictions mandate we live in joyful praise of God? Hear the good news about how God redeems loss.
For those who have been asking to hear more about Ashley Smith’s “furnace experience,” the story of God’s hope and protection is told boldly in the movie, “Captive,” in theaters this month.
Interestingly, God's miracles seem to come only when certain conditions are met. There must be a need, an insufficient way to fill that need, and humility enough to accept the help. Dr. Sams show us Christ's most visible miracle in scripture, and uses it to help us remember Christ's invitation to us. We have an insufficient offering. But would you watch, and remember what God does with those who show up willing?
Interestingly, God's miracles seem to come only when certain conditions are met. There must be a need, an insufficient way to fill that need, and humility enough to accept the help. Dr. Sams show us Christ's most visible miracle in scripture, and uses it to help us remember Christ's invitation to us. We have an insufficient offering. But would you watch, and remember what God does with those who show up willing?
Somehow, our culture has identified the bed as the apex of intimacy. Sadly, the church is not immune to this claim. But scripture teaches us the truth, and this Sunday, Rev. Keenan Barber reminds us of the story of the woman with the alabaster jar who washes Jesus' feet with her hair and her tears. The setting for all this was a table - a dinner at Simon the Pharisee's house. We invite you to watch and hear the gospel at work, revealing the true nature of intimacy, and how we can take part in it.
Somehow, our culture has identified the bed as the apex of intimacy. Sadly, the church is not immune to this claim. But scripture teaches us the truth, and this Sunday, Rev. Keenan Barber reminds us of the story of the woman with the alabaster jar who washes Jesus' feet with her hair and her tears. The setting for all this was a table - a dinner at Simon the Pharisee's house. We invite you to watch and hear the gospel at work, revealing the true nature of intimacy, and how we can take part in it.
When a paralytic appears to a packed house on the edge of their seats to hear what Christ has to teach, the proverbial needle flies right off the record. While Christ was teaching, a hole in the ceiling appeared, and a paralyzed man was lowered through it. How rude! But as Mike Morgan shows us in the Scriptures, Christ has orchestrated this moment to show his followers that faith embraces the interruption, community addresses it, and most importantly that God is in the midst of it. What is Christ orchestrating in your life? Watch or listen, be encouraged, and then share it! Witness the With-ness: God is with us!
When a paralytic appears to a packed house on the edge of their seats to hear what Christ has to teach, the proverbial needle flies right off the record. While Christ was teaching, a hole in the ceiling appeared, and a paralyzed man was lowered through it. How rude! But as Mike Morgan shows us in the Scriptures, Christ has orchestrated this moment to show his followers that faith embraces the interruption, community addresses it, and most importantly that God is in the midst of it. What is Christ orchestrating in your life? Watch or listen, be encouraged, and then share it! Witness the With-ness: God is with us!
Bad things happen to us all. Death owns us. Loss of family. Loss of spouse. Loss of job. Loss of home. We all fall into a pit from time to time, sometimes unto death. It is a product of our fallen world. Dr. Sams shows us how Christ uses the pit to redeem our experience so that it is not a waste. In fact, this is one of the most amazing characteristics of God. He takes the brokenness of our fallen world and uses it for good. Nothing is wasted. Hear the good news here.
Bad things happen to us all. Death owns us. Loss of family. Loss of spouse. Loss of job. Loss of home. We all fall into a pit from time to time, sometimes unto death. It is a product of our fallen world. Dr. Sams shows us how Christ uses the pit to redeem our experience so that it is not a waste. In fact, this is one of the most amazing characteristics of God. He takes the brokenness of our fallen world and uses it for good. Nothing is wasted. Hear the good news here.
Where do you spend your time, talent, and treasure? It is safe to say we are easily led away from the most meaningful things. Though this message is some of the most basic truth about God, Dr. Sams delivers it from a relevant and fresh perspective. If we only knew, if we were only mindful... Watch or listen and ask yourself what you will do about the shining light in our lives we so easily take for granted.
Where do you spend your time, talent, and treasure? It is safe to say we are easily led away from the most meaningful things. Though this message is some of the most basic truth about God, Dr. Sams delivers it from a relevant and fresh perspective. If we only knew, if we were only mindful... Watch or listen and ask yourself what you will do about the shining light in our lives we so easily take for granted.
Thanksgiving has multiple levels. We sing songs of thanksgiving, but depending on the condition of our soul, the credibility of those songs can be questioned. Thanksgiving can be shallow, or it can come from a place of deep peace & stability. Dr. Sams illustrates the difference for us, shows us the trap of shallow thanksgiving, and challenges us to find the deepest anchor point in Christ. From that place can well up credible, sustainable, live-giving offerings of thanks that are full of grace and truth.
Thanksgiving has multiple levels. We sing songs of thanksgiving, but depending on the condition of our soul, the credibility of those songs can be questioned. Thanksgiving can be shallow, or it can come from a place of deep peace & stability. Dr. Sams illustrates the difference for us, shows us the trap of shallow thanksgiving, and challenges us to find the deepest anchor point in Christ. From that place can well up credible, sustainable, live-giving offerings of thanks that are full of grace and truth.
I certainly never thought of God as homeless. That was a surprise for me this week. And yet, God's search for a home is a compelling framework for understanding His pursuit of us. For hundreds of years, men attempted to provide a home for God - tabernacles, tents, temples, etc. But as Dr. Sams reminds us, Christ and His work on the cross proves that God simply wants to be with us, to dwell with us, to make a home in us. God's home is in the hearts of people. As God home-makes, we are transformed. We are made into what our Creator (and every person) desires: a beautiful dwelling place to call "home".
I certainly never thought of God as homeless. That was a surprise for me this week. And yet, God's search for a home is a compelling framework for understanding His pursuit of us. For hundreds of years, men attempted to provide a home for God - tabernacles, tents, temples, etc. But as Dr. Sams reminds us, Christ and His work on the cross proves that God simply wants to be with us, to dwell with us, to make a home in us. God's home is in the hearts of people. As God home-makes, we are transformed. We are made into what our Creator (and every person) desires: a beautiful dwelling place to call "home".
The blues is probably the most recognizable modern music we know. It is conceived in suffering, in pain, in loss of hope. Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley opens the Scriptures to illuminate the antidote to the blues. When we share our blues, we gain healing in the sharing of the suffering. Having Christ, who suffered more than we can imagine, gives us a brother-Lord. He knows our pain and because of that, only He can bring us perfect healing. We are never alone in our blues. It is shared with the blues' Almighty Healer.
The blues is probably the most recognizable modern music we know. It is conceived in suffering, in pain, in loss of hope. Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley opens the Scriptures to illuminate the antidote to the blues. When we share our blues, we gain healing in the sharing of the suffering. Having Christ, who suffered more than we can imagine, gives us a brother-Lord. He knows our pain and because of that, only He can bring us perfect healing. We are never alone in our blues. It is shared with the blues' Almighty Healer.
Dr. Sams opens the Psalms once again to remind us how Christ wants to show us a clear picture of the joy He is. He wants to bring us festival joy. His joy does not run out. There is no hangover, nor indigestion, nor fatigue from the indulgence in too much joy. His is endless, for it is His essence. He is joy. With His indwelling in our hearts, we have joy. We need only remember that it is there.
Dr. Sams opens the Psalms once again to remind us how Christ wants to show us a clear picture of the joy He is. He wants to bring us festival joy. His joy does not run out. There is no hangover, nor indigestion, nor fatigue from the indulgence in too much joy. His is endless, for it is His essence. He is joy. With His indwelling in our hearts, we have joy. We need only remember that it is there.
Psalm 150 is like an Arena Anthem... those songs we recognize instantly, as if they were somehow an integral part of our lives. Psalm 150 declares that God is an end unto Himself, self-justifying in all He does. Not only is God useful to us in our lives, providing for us, answering prayers for us, He is intrinsically valuable, and simply enjoying His company has an unmeasurable effect on our hearts. Christ's work on the cross gives us access to an all-good, all-loving, all-powerful God. Simply being with Him is the greatest good we will ever find. And that demands declaration in an Arena Anthem.
Psalm 150 is like an Arena Anthem... those songs we recognize instantly, as if they were somehow an integral part of our lives. Psalm 150 declares that God is an end unto Himself, self-justifying in all He does. Not only is God useful to us in our lives, providing for us, answering prayers for us, He is intrinsically valuable, and simply enjoying His company has an unmeasurable effect on our hearts. Christ's work on the cross gives us access to an all-good, all-loving, all-powerful God. Simply being with Him is the greatest good we will ever find. And that demands declaration in an Arena Anthem.
We can only guess what a Psalm would have sounded like; the Psalms' music is lost to history. But knowing there was music to each Psalm, we can apply to the Psalms a universal truth about music. Like music, the Psalms are a reflection of our mood and experiences. Dr. Sams' introductory sermon for this series reminds us that God has given us His Word, and it is useful to remind us that for every struggle and every joy, relevant truth can be found in the book of Psalms. By this we know God more than understands our lives, He is worthy to be Lord of them.
We can only guess what a Psalm would have sounded like; the Psalms' music is lost to history. But knowing there was music to each Psalm, we can apply to the Psalms a universal truth about music. Like music, the Psalms are a reflection of our mood and experiences. Dr. Sams' introductory sermon for this series reminds us that God has given us His Word, and it is useful to remind us that for every struggle and every joy, relevant truth can be found in the book of Psalms. By this we know God more than understands our lives, He is worthy to be Lord of them.
How we respond to our broken world's tough questions greatly influences our life's path. Helping us to wrap up our tough questions sermon series, Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley gives us the only meaningful answer to our tough questions: choosing life. If we sit with our tough questions forever, they will enslave us, and in effect, we choose death. No one does this on purpose, but we have all wrestled with (or will wrestle with) tough questions. It is easy to unwittingly choose to stay stuck, to sit forever, to choose death. But listen to this sermon and hear the good news. We don't have to be stuck. We can choose to rise. We can choose life. We can choose Christ: the way, the truth, and the life.
How we respond to our broken world's tough questions greatly influences our life's path. Helping us to wrap up our tough questions sermon series, Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley gives us the only meaningful answer to our tough questions: choosing life. If we sit with our tough questions forever, they will enslave us, and in effect, we choose death. No one does this on purpose, but we have all wrestled with (or will wrestle with) tough questions. It is easy to unwittingly choose to stay stuck, to sit forever, to choose death. But listen to this sermon and hear the good news. We don't have to be stuck. We can choose to rise. We can choose life. We can choose Christ: the way, the truth, and the life.
In his final sermon preached at Bel Air Presbyterian Church, Dr. Paul challenges us to update our "maps" with regard to following Christ. Some of our maps are so outdated, they are not only theologically incorrect, they create an avoidable misunderstanding and distaste for the church. Christ's map for us is Himself. Our relationship with Him transforms us, making our "maps" dynamic, always improving. Would you listen, and allow the Spirit to inspire your dreams about what the church could be? Let us not allow the Good News of Christ to be lost in the noise of the world's perception.
In his final sermon preached at Bel Air Presbyterian Church, Dr. Paul challenges us to update our "maps" with regard to following Christ. Some of our maps are so outdated, they are not only theologically incorrect, they create an avoidable misunderstanding and distaste for the church. Christ's map for us is Himself. Our relationship with Him transforms us, making our "maps" dynamic, always improving. Would you listen, and allow the Spirit to inspire your dreams about what the church could be? Let us not allow the Good News of Christ to be lost in the noise of the world's perception.
We all want things. In fact, among all our desires, many can be counted as noble, God-honoring desires. Yet sometimes our desires are not brought to fruition. We wait, and wait, but God is in control, and sometimes chooses to leave our desires unfulfilled. Dr. Sams reminds us of the pitfall of conditional belief - deciding only to believe if God fulfills our desires. When we choose to believe regardless of our circumstances, we find peace in Christ. Watch, and see an interview with members of our own community choosing to believe, regardless of disappointment in the midst of a long wait on God.
We all want things. In fact, among all our desires, many can be counted as noble, God-honoring desires. Yet sometimes our desires are not brought to fruition. We wait, and wait, but God is in control, and sometimes chooses to leave our desires unfulfilled. Dr. Sams reminds us of the pitfall of conditional belief - deciding only to believe if God fulfills our desires. When we choose to believe regardless of our circumstances, we find peace in Christ. Watch, and see an interview with members of our own community choosing to believe, regardless of disappointment in the midst of a long wait on God.
In the fifth sermon of our series "Sitting With The Tough Questions", Dr. Sams addresses the question most submitted to our leadership. What do we do with our lives? We are generally preoccupied with either making decisions, or avoiding them, pinning all responsibility on God. Yet scripture gives us a different outlook. As we fix our eyes on Jesus (as Zacchaeus did), Christ not only meets us, He dwells with us. Listen, and hear the good news: Christ is with us, and we need not struggle to figure out His plan. We need only make ourselves available to Him. As we relax into our relationship with God, His will unveils exactly how it's supposed to. And whether or not we see it coming becomes insignificant.
In the fifth sermon of our series "Sitting With The Tough Questions", Dr. Sams addresses the question most submitted to our leadership. What do we do with our lives? We are generally preoccupied with either making decisions, or avoiding them, pinning all responsibility on God. Yet scripture gives us a different outlook. As we fix our eyes on Jesus (as Zacchaeus did), Christ not only meets us, He dwells with us. Listen, and hear the good news: Christ is with us, and we need not struggle to figure out His plan. We need only make ourselves available to Him. As we relax into our relationship with God, His will unveils exactly how it's supposed to. And whether or not we see it coming becomes insignificant.
In the fourth sermon on tough questions, Dr. Sams again reminds us that Christ's best answers are His own presence. We're honored to have Jay & Katherine Wolf from our own congregation join Dr. Sams on the platform. The Wolfs have faced challenges more daunting than most of us will ever face. But the Wolfs have not looked for an answer. Instead, they have looked for Jesus. God has revealed Himself to Jay and Katherine in a way that their suffering is not just relieved by God, but felt by God. They have found solidarity in Jesus, and therefore compassion, a forever friend and brother, and ultimately, salvation from the brokenness they face every day. If you want to see God work through normal people to tackle insurmountable problems, you simply must watch.
In the fourth sermon on tough questions, Dr. Sams again reminds us that Christ's best answers are His own presence. We're honored to have Jay & Katherine Wolf from our own congregation join Dr. Sams on the platform. The Wolfs have faced challenges more daunting than most of us will ever face. But the Wolfs have not looked for an answer. Instead, they have looked for Jesus. God has revealed Himself to Jay and Katherine in a way that their suffering is not just relieved by God, but felt by God. They have found solidarity in Jesus, and therefore compassion, a forever friend and brother, and ultimately, salvation from the brokenness they face every day. If you want to see God work through normal people to tackle insurmountable problems, you simply must watch.
In one of the most famous stories in scripture, Christ shows the Jewish leaders the chief importance of how we define ourselves. They brought before Him "a woman caught in adultery". But probably all Christ saw was "a child needing redemption". Magnificently full of grace and truth, He shows the Jewish leaders the brokenness of their premise: that our labels are meaningful in the face of how He sees us. Dr. Sams illustrates how we hold ourselves back from the fullness of grace and truth by applying own own insignificant labels. Have you applied one to others? To yourself? Which labels really matter? Watch or listen. This is one of those sermons that has the potential to change every relationship you have for the better.
In one of the most famous stories in scripture, Christ shows the Jewish leaders the chief importance of how we define ourselves. They brought before Him "a woman caught in adultery". But probably all Christ saw was "a child needing redemption". Magnificently full of grace and truth, He shows the Jewish leaders the brokenness of their premise: that our labels are meaningful in the face of how He sees us. Dr. Sams illustrates how we hold ourselves back from the fullness of grace and truth by applying own own insignificant labels. Have you applied one to others? To yourself? Which labels really matter? Watch or listen. This is one of those sermons that has the potential to change every relationship you have for the better.
Dr. Sams links the invisible Christ on the Emmaus road to the invisible God working in our lives. Sometimes you may feel God is just absent. The reality is that God may become even harder to perceive as we walk through our lives. The big question is: if He does, will we still reach for Him? God has heard the many cries of man against His absence probably for as long as people have existed. These cries do not bother Him! If fact, He wants us to cry out. It brings us to Him. So what will you do? What should you do? Have a listen. Perhaps right now, this message is just what you need to hear.
Dr. Sams links the invisible Christ on the Emmaus road to the invisible God working in our lives. Sometimes you may feel God is just absent. The reality is that God may become even harder to perceive as we walk through our lives. The big question is: if He does, will we still reach for Him? God has heard the many cries of man against His absence probably for as long as people have existed. These cries do not bother Him! If fact, He wants us to cry out. It brings us to Him. So what will you do? What should you do? Have a listen. Perhaps right now, this message is just what you need to hear.
In the first chapter of John, we read about how Nathaniel believes in Jesus after witnessing a simple miracle. This is almost universally true. We are generally shallow and dense in our approach to God. We bring along many assumptions of what the gospel means. But in this message, Dr. Sams offers us Christ alone - His presence. Awkward and wonderful, we sit with God, perhaps under compulsion, perhaps under discipline, and we begin to learn. If you've never submitted to Christ's loving rule over your life, we invite you to watch and hear what Christ's response to Nathaniel has to do with driving a stick shift. :-)
In the first chapter of John, we read about how Nathaniel believes in Jesus after witnessing a simple miracle. This is almost universally true. We are generally shallow and dense in our approach to God. We bring along many assumptions of what the gospel means. But in this message, Dr. Sams offers us Christ alone - His presence. Awkward and wonderful, we sit with God, perhaps under compulsion, perhaps under discipline, and we begin to learn. If you've never submitted to Christ's loving rule over your life, we invite you to watch and hear what Christ's response to Nathaniel has to do with driving a stick shift. :-)
Guest speaker Elizabeth Sendek from Biblical Seminary of Colombia proclaims God's might. In Psalm 145, we see God not only able to meet our needs, He is able to sustain the world, meeting the basic needs of everything. We usually take this for granted. But there lies a key difference between our world and God's kingdom. In heaven, this basic caretaking equals strength and might. It is what makes God worthy of our worship. In this season at Bel Air Presbyterian Church, we want to be about heavenly strength and might. Watch to see God show us through Elizabeth what is truly "newsworthy".
Guest speaker Elizabeth Sendek from Biblical Seminary of Colombia proclaims God's might. In Psalm 145, we see God not only able to meet our needs, He is able to sustain the world, meeting the basic needs of everything. We usually take this for granted. But there lies a key difference between our world and God's kingdom. In heaven, this basic caretaking equals strength and might. It is what makes God worthy of our worship. In this season at Bel Air Presbyterian Church, we want to be about heavenly strength and might. Watch to see God show us through Elizabeth what is truly "newsworthy".
In revealing a secret that is within the very nature of God, Dr. Sams helps us remember the benefits of community. No community has the potential that a community of faith in Jesus has. When we courageously bring our brokenness, we open a new way for God to speak to us, to heal us, to love us.
In revealing a secret that is within the very nature of God, Dr. Sams helps us remember the benefits of community. No community has the potential that a community of faith in Jesus has. When we courageously bring our brokenness, we open a new way for God to speak to us, to heal us, to love us.
In his first Easter sermon ever, Dr. Sams reminds us what the resurrection means, and gives us a charge to love our neighbor as Christ loved them.
In his first Easter sermon ever, Dr. Sams reminds us what the resurrection means, and gives us a charge to love our neighbor as Christ loved them.
One year after challenging us with the concept of homothumadon, Dr. Sams uses a Scripture verse easily overlooked to up the challenge. Homothumadon is community, but if the community is exclusive, it is not a Christ-centered community. So the challenge is to love the people in our city so well, that Christ's love for them cannot be denied or ignored. Watch & listen to hear about four wondrous offerings of Christ-centered community. If practiced well, souls can be made whole by God's grace.
One year after challenging us with the concept of homothumadon, Dr. Sams uses a Scripture verse easily overlooked to up the challenge. Homothumadon is community, but if the community is exclusive, it is not a Christ-centered community. So the challenge is to love the people in our city so well, that Christ's love for them cannot be denied or ignored. Watch & listen to hear about four wondrous offerings of Christ-centered community. If practiced well, souls can be made whole by God's grace.
Mike Morgan, Senior Director of Caring Ministries, helps us envision the reactions of Jesus and his disciples to the events of Thursday, the day before Christ was crucified. Christ shows the disciples what deep grief is: the war between willing spirit and weak flesh. It is a universal struggle from which we can not only learn about Christ's suffering, but about what it means to be faithful and present for our own neighbors in need.
Mike Morgan, Senior Director of Caring Ministries, helps us envision the reactions of Jesus and his disciples to the events of Thursday, the day before Christ was crucified. Christ shows the disciples what deep grief is: the war between willing spirit and weak flesh. It is a universal struggle from which we can not only learn about Christ's suffering, but about what it means to be faithful and present for our own neighbors in need.
Dr. Sams explores the (literally) excruciating agony that Christ experienced in the Garden of Gethsemane. We look to the cross as the symbol of our Lord's victory over death. But Christ's true suffering came from separation from His Father. This began at Gethsemane. Watch, and remember with us, the true cost of salvation. Remember with us the good news of His excruciating agony, suffered for our benefit.
Dr. Sams explores the (literally) excruciating agony that Christ experienced in the Garden of Gethsemane. We look to the cross as the symbol of our Lord's victory over death. But Christ's true suffering came from separation from His Father. This began at Gethsemane. Watch, and remember with us, the true cost of salvation. Remember with us the good news of His excruciating agony, suffered for our benefit.
Dr. Sams highlights key moments in the bible where God's provision of "the lamb" fulfills a sacrificial requirement. From Isaac asking his father, Abram, "Where is the lamb?" to Christ proclaiming "This is my body broken for you," God's faithfulness to provide a sacrifice enabling us to commune with Him is a common theme, perhaps the theme of the bible. Listen and watch to learn ways we retell the story, remembering what God has done for us.
Dr. Sams highlights key moments in the bible where God's provision of "the lamb" fulfills a sacrificial requirement. From Isaac asking his father, Abram, "Where is the lamb?" to Christ proclaiming "This is my body broken for you," God's faithfulness to provide a sacrifice enabling us to commune with Him is a common theme, perhaps the theme of the bible. Listen and watch to learn ways we retell the story, remembering what God has done for us.
Giving up is not the same as giving in. The former indicates a surrender born from frustration, the latter born from utter emptiness. Dr. Sams reviews a familiar story from Scripture and helps us remember God's compassion toward us. He desires eternal communion with His children. He will not end His pursuit of us - His love is extravagant. In that love, we may lose ourselves, but we gain Christ and His eternal glory.
Giving up is not the same as giving in. The former indicates a surrender born from frustration, the latter born from utter emptiness. Dr. Sams reviews a familiar story from Scripture and helps us remember God's compassion toward us. He desires eternal communion with His children. He will not end His pursuit of us - His love is extravagant. In that love, we may lose ourselves, but we gain Christ and His eternal glory.
Giving everything is really, really hard. We retain control of so much without ever thinking about what it means to let go. But there is no comparison to the freedom of allowing Christ to guide your life. He does not, and will not steer you wrong. Dr. Sams sheds new light on a piece of Scripture where faith meets trust and moves people into complete abandonment of control to God. That kind of surrender generates amazing stories - gospel stories. Wanna hear some? You need only click the little triangle. :-)
Giving everything is really, really hard. We retain control of so much without ever thinking about what it means to let go. But there is no comparison to the freedom of allowing Christ to guide your life. He does not, and will not steer you wrong. Dr. Sams sheds new light on a piece of Scripture where faith meets trust and moves people into complete abandonment of control to God. That kind of surrender generates amazing stories - gospel stories. Wanna hear some? You need only click the little triangle. :-)
Christ lived his life "in tune" with God the Father. No action was uninspired by this connection. Because he lived his life perfectly in tune with God's Spirit, he was compelled to certain actions reflecting the values of the kingdom. Sometimes those actions are aggressive, even violent, as Christ stormed through the temple, tearing down artificial barriers to God. Dr. Sams explores the love of God that compels Christ to actions that sometimes appear violent, but are in fact, meant to save lives.
Christ lived his life "in tune" with God the Father. No action was uninspired by this connection. Because he lived his life perfectly in tune with God's Spirit, he was compelled to certain actions reflecting the values of the kingdom. Sometimes those actions are aggressive, even violent, as Christ stormed through the temple, tearing down artificial barriers to God. Dr. Sams explores the love of God that compels Christ to actions that sometimes appear violent, but are in fact, meant to save lives.
Can God fix the impossible problems in your life? Of course He can. But a better question is: should He fix them? As broken people, we are prone to focus on the miracle instead of the miracle worker. Dr. Sams highlights the Exodus as an example of our tendency to lose focus of the main thing. But by Christ's work on the cross, we are relieved of our burdens. He who is able to work miracles, has control of our problems, and cares for us perfectly. Watch & hear Dr. Sams remind us of the good news. If we focus on Christ, we are free.
Can God fix the impossible problems in your life? Of course He can. But a better question is: should He fix them? As broken people, we are prone to focus on the miracle instead of the miracle worker. Dr. Sams highlights the Exodus as an example of our tendency to lose focus of the main thing. But by Christ's work on the cross, we are relieved of our burdens. He who is able to work miracles, has control of our problems, and cares for us perfectly. Watch & hear Dr. Sams remind us of the good news. If we focus on Christ, we are free.
In our greatest sorrow, we are not alone. In our loss, we are not abandoned. We sometimes place our trust in things destined to fail us. And so sometimes our "caves" are of our own designs. But in the midst of our greatest sorrows, God can do His greatest work. Dr. Sams reminds us how God comes through again and again. He is faithful to show up in the cave with us, to remind us how we are not alone, ever.
In our greatest sorrow, we are not alone. In our loss, we are not abandoned. We sometimes place our trust in things destined to fail us. And so sometimes our "caves" are of our own designs. But in the midst of our greatest sorrows, God can do His greatest work. Dr. Sams reminds us how God comes through again and again. He is faithful to show up in the cave with us, to remind us how we are not alone, ever.
When we are hurt by someone, we typically respond either passively or vengefully. Neither way brings peace. The only satisfying way to respond to hurt is to draw near to God. When we do, a number of alternatives open to us. We can intercede for those sinning against us. We can surrender our right to judge them to God. We can ask for healing and/or restoration. This prayer reflex only happens when we abide in Christ and are filled by His Holy Spirit. Would you watch and hear Dr. Sams remind us how the Gospel helps us in one of life's most challenging tasks: dealing with hurt.
When we are hurt by someone, we typically respond either passively or vengefully. Neither way brings peace. The only satisfying way to respond to hurt is to draw near to God. When we do, a number of alternatives open to us. We can intercede for those sinning against us. We can surrender our right to judge them to God. We can ask for healing and/or restoration. This prayer reflex only happens when we abide in Christ and are filled by His Holy Spirit. Would you watch and hear Dr. Sams remind us how the Gospel helps us in one of life's most challenging tasks: dealing with hurt.
A question has power that does not lie in its answer. Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley shows us how the hidden things of God drive us further to Him. Our relationship with God is driven by questions, and when answered, questions lose significant power. Without the question, we don't get any engagement at all. And if an answer is given, our engagement is minimal. Our unanswered questions draw us to God. Because of questions, we can become His friend, and more importantly, He, our friend. Listen or watch to hear biblical (and testimonial) examples of exactly how this works. God's designs are amazing!
A question has power that does not lie in its answer. Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley shows us how the hidden things of God drive us further to Him. Our relationship with God is driven by questions, and when answered, questions lose significant power. Without the question, we don't get any engagement at all. And if an answer is given, our engagement is minimal. Our unanswered questions draw us to God. Because of questions, we can become His friend, and more importantly, He, our friend. Listen or watch to hear biblical (and testimonial) examples of exactly how this works. God's designs are amazing!
In the first sermon of the Access series, Dr. Sams shows us how to find the profound in the familiar. If we become used to the familiar practices designed to bring us closer to God, such as the Lord's prayer, then our heart will eventually harden toward our Creator. But if we're persistently looking for the next layer of God's best, we're sure to find it. God is bottomless. We cannot know Him enough. And prayer is our primary path to intimacy with Him. God is, and always will be, available. Listen to learn how to approach God, so that you are as available to Him as He is to you.
In the first sermon of the Access series, Dr. Sams shows us how to find the profound in the familiar. If we become used to the familiar practices designed to bring us closer to God, such as the Lord's prayer, then our heart will eventually harden toward our Creator. But if we're persistently looking for the next layer of God's best, we're sure to find it. God is bottomless. We cannot know Him enough. And prayer is our primary path to intimacy with Him. God is, and always will be, available. Listen to learn how to approach God, so that you are as available to Him as He is to you.
World-class psychologist and author, Dr. Henry Cloud, reminds us how grace enables us to walk in the way of new life. New Year's resolutions are a fantastic example of how we set our own law, and then fail to meet our own law's standard. We need something more than law, more than standard, more than ourselves, to help us. And this is what Christmas is all about. Christ came to give us grace - help we do not deserve, and help we cannot generate on our own. It is good news. Do not miss Dr. Cloud's message. It is great hope for us all at Christmas.
World-class psychologist and author, Dr. Henry Cloud, reminds us how grace enables us to walk in the way of new life. New Year's resolutions are a fantastic example of how we set our own law, and then fail to meet our own law's standard. We need something more than law, more than standard, more than ourselves, to help us. And this is what Christmas is all about. Christ came to give us grace - help we do not deserve, and help we cannot generate on our own. It is good news. Do not miss Dr. Cloud's message. It is great hope for us all at Christmas.
Dr. Sams expounds on the reason for being. It is the biggest question one can ask. And there is no better time than to reflect than at Advent, when the Creator of the universe put on a human body, lowered himself from His realm to ours, and became our brother. The Greek word for "word", Logos, implies purpose. If you read, "In the beginning was the purpose for existence...", you begin to see how much more Logos means than "word". We are designed to be God's and with God. This is the foundation of all Christian hope. Life, light, hope, God - came to us and brought us these gifts. Would you receive the gift? Hear the good news again. Immanuel. God with us.
Dr. Sams expounds on the reason for being. It is the biggest question one can ask. And there is no better time than to reflect than at Advent, when the Creator of the universe put on a human body, lowered himself from His realm to ours, and became our brother. The Greek word for "word", Logos, implies purpose. If you read, "In the beginning was the purpose for existence...", you begin to see how much more Logos means than "word". We are designed to be God's and with God. This is the foundation of all Christian hope. Life, light, hope, God - came to us and brought us these gifts. Would you receive the gift? Hear the good news again. Immanuel. God with us.
What if you were given access to the most important person on the planet? What would you do with that access? On this third Sunday in advent, Dr. Sams preaches on how The King has come down to dwell among us, through Jesus’ birth. This is not a fairy-tale, far-off type of kingdom we imagined in childhood, but instead a King who comes to our workplace, our homes, and into our imitate lives. We are given access to God the Father, and He desires to dwell among us all, no exceptions. Watch or listen, and hear the good news. God is with us!
What if you were given access to the most important person on the planet? What would you do with that access? On this third Sunday in advent, Dr. Sams preaches on how The King has come down to dwell among us, through Jesus’ birth. This is not a fairy-tale, far-off type of kingdom we imagined in childhood, but instead a King who comes to our workplace, our homes, and into our imitate lives. We are given access to God the Father, and He desires to dwell among us all, no exceptions. Watch or listen, and hear the good news. God is with us!
We need rescue from our circumstance. Simply put, we cannot see what God sees. And regardless of how immense, our need is usually veiled from us. Dr. Sams teaches us from the book of Mark about how God immediately works. If we can connect with the immediacy (the "right now") of God's work in our lives, how the joy of Advent will take hold. We can live lives of purpose, lives full of joy, and free from any chain the world would place on us. Listen, and hear how God's reach into our lives is timeless.
We need rescue from our circumstance. Simply put, we cannot see what God sees. And regardless of how immense, our need is usually veiled from us. Dr. Sams teaches us from the book of Mark about how God immediately works. If we can connect with the immediacy (the "right now") of God's work in our lives, how the joy of Advent will take hold. We can live lives of purpose, lives full of joy, and free from any chain the world would place on us. Listen, and hear how God's reach into our lives is timeless.
Rev. Dorr-Tilley opens the Scriptures to shine light on what appears to be nothing special: a genealogy. And yet, it is a reminder that the promises of God are consistent and persistent. They do not fail through even the 42 generations listed in Matthew 1. Watch or listen, and find out how much of God's goodness is revealed in a simple list of names.
Rev. Dorr-Tilley opens the Scriptures to shine light on what appears to be nothing special: a genealogy. And yet, it is a reminder that the promises of God are consistent and persistent. They do not fail through even the 42 generations listed in Matthew 1. Watch or listen, and find out how much of God's goodness is revealed in a simple list of names.
Senior Director of Caring Ministries, Mike Morgan, walks us through how resting brings us to an opportunity to remember and be grateful. Rest is frequently unrecognized as a gift from God, so much so that he commanded we rest in the ten commandments. Rest slows us down enough to remember our blessings, and to be grateful that God is everywhere, is good, and is our advocate.
Senior Director of Caring Ministries, Mike Morgan, walks us through how resting brings us to an opportunity to remember and be grateful. Rest is frequently unrecognized as a gift from God, so much so that he commanded we rest in the ten commandments. Rest slows us down enough to remember our blessings, and to be grateful that God is everywhere, is good, and is our advocate.
Olive oil was a common household item in the first century. In the production of olive oil, olives go through three separate pressings. Each one is symbolic of what we experience in our lives, and what our Savior experienced in His life. Dr. Sams show us how avoiding suffering (the pressing down) denies us beautiful truth that can be critically useful (or poured out) to our neighbors. Watch, and be encouraged by the work God is doing through you.
Olive oil was a common household item in the first century. In the production of olive oil, olives go through three separate pressings. Each one is symbolic of what we experience in our lives, and what our Savior experienced in His life. Dr. Sams show us how avoiding suffering (the pressing down) denies us beautiful truth that can be critically useful (or poured out) to our neighbors. Watch, and be encouraged by the work God is doing through you.
Dr. Sams shows us that the worth of our lives has nothing to do with the value of our gifts. But it has everything to do with how we spend those gifts. What we pour out isn't as important as what we pour into. Watch Dr. Sams present an amazing example of how wasteful it can be to pour the gift of your life into something meaningless.
Dr. Sams shows us that the worth of our lives has nothing to do with the value of our gifts. But it has everything to do with how we spend those gifts. What we pour out isn't as important as what we pour into. Watch Dr. Sams present an amazing example of how wasteful it can be to pour the gift of your life into something meaningless.
Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.
John 21:25 (NIV)
Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.
John 21:25 (NIV)
Dr. Mark Labberton, President of Fuller Theological Seminary, takes us through one of Christ's best known parables about building your house on rock or sand. As our enemies bring storms against us, we can, both individually and as a church, endure those storms. The real victory however, is in telling the story of how Christ's love shelters us from those storms - our firsthand accounts of the power of His love. Would you enter into the story? It begins with building your house on The Rock. Hear God's Word and be inspired.
Dr. Mark Labberton, President of Fuller Theological Seminary, takes us through one of Christ's best known parables about building your house on rock or sand. As our enemies bring storms against us, we can, both individually and as a church, endure those storms. The real victory however, is in telling the story of how Christ's love shelters us from those storms - our firsthand accounts of the power of His love. Would you enter into the story? It begins with building your house on The Rock. Hear God's Word and be inspired.
Using a challenging final verse in today's scripture passage, Dr. Sams educates us with historical background, showing us that the parable Jesus told was a mirror of current events, but with a "kingdom of heaven" twist. By using current events, Christ creates a new, profound layer of understanding. In this parable, Christ proves himself to be not a typical king. But what does that mean? Watch, and hear biblical truth about both judgment, and service. And don't miss Dr. Sams share a personal story about how a family risked their lives to serve his family.
Using a challenging final verse in today's scripture passage, Dr. Sams educates us with historical background, showing us that the parable Jesus told was a mirror of current events, but with a "kingdom of heaven" twist. By using current events, Christ creates a new, profound layer of understanding. In this parable, Christ proves himself to be not a typical king. But what does that mean? Watch, and hear biblical truth about both judgment, and service. And don't miss Dr. Sams share a personal story about how a family risked their lives to serve his family.
The two shortest parables Jesus shares with his disciples pack a great deal of truth. On the surface, Christ shows us how the kingdom of heaven is priceless. Both parables reflect that. But there is one crucial difference. Watch or listen while Dr. Sams shines a fresh light on Christ's words showing us what (and who) the kingdom of heaven is.
The two shortest parables Jesus shares with his disciples pack a great deal of truth. On the surface, Christ shows us how the kingdom of heaven is priceless. Both parables reflect that. But there is one crucial difference. Watch or listen while Dr. Sams shines a fresh light on Christ's words showing us what (and who) the kingdom of heaven is.
So much confusion exists over what it means to be born again. A cultural understanding has taken root that most of us find unfavorable. But where does this term "born again" come from? Dr. Sams takes us through Christ's initial encounter with Nicodemus, where the term is first used. The real meaning is a challenge to all our assumptions, all our basic understandings of what it means to be a part of the Kingdom of heaven. But with the challenge comes a promise of new life. Watch or listen, and be encouraged by how far God reaches out to us.
So much confusion exists over what it means to be born again. A cultural understanding has taken root that most of us find unfavorable. But where does this term "born again" come from? Dr. Sams takes us through Christ's initial encounter with Nicodemus, where the term is first used. The real meaning is a challenge to all our assumptions, all our basic understandings of what it means to be a part of the Kingdom of heaven. But with the challenge comes a promise of new life. Watch or listen, and be encouraged by how far God reaches out to us.
In an intense passage of scripture, we explore a parable of hypocirsy - where a slave is forgiven a large debt, yet refuses to forgive a small debt he is owed by another. Dr. Sams show us how we place ourselves in a debtor's prison of our own making by forcing others to "pay their debt" in an infinite variety of ways. But Christ invites us to forgive others their debt, as He has forgiven us. And this is but one small aspect of the kingdom of God.
In an intense passage of scripture, we explore a parable of hypocirsy - where a slave is forgiven a large debt, yet refuses to forgive a small debt he is owed by another. Dr. Sams show us how we place ourselves in a debtor's prison of our own making by forcing others to "pay their debt" in an infinite variety of ways. But Christ invites us to forgive others their debt, as He has forgiven us. And this is but one small aspect of the kingdom of God.
Dr. Sams shares his personal testimony in showing us what it means to enter the kingdom of God. In showing us, Drew reminds us that there is no way to earn heaven by living well. Christ Himself is the way. As we make Him our Lord, He justifies our entry into the kingdom. It is the best news. Watch, and be reminded how good God is.
Dr. Sams shares his personal testimony in showing us what it means to enter the kingdom of God. In showing us, Drew reminds us that there is no way to earn heaven by living well. Christ Himself is the way. As we make Him our Lord, He justifies our entry into the kingdom. It is the best news. Watch, and be reminded how good God is.
Dr. Sams, in his opening sermon of the new "Thrive" series, differentiates between firsthand accounts and secondhand accounts of the kingdom of God. Description is just an entry point. Christ goes further by demonstrating the kingdom with signs and miracles. But the true gift is our invitation to transition from experiencing a secondhand account to experiencing a firsthand account of the kingdom.
On the surface, the Scripture for today's message seems simple. Choose Life. But by misunderstanding "life", we are tricked into choosing death. We chase after things we think will give us life. They do not. We place faith in them, and they fail us. To contrast this, Dr. Sams shows us how this Scripture points to Christ: The Way, The Truth, and The Life. God is our everlasting life. Jesus Christ's death and resurrection grants us access to no less, if we choose to take it.
On the surface, the Scripture for today's message seems simple. Choose Life. But by misunderstanding "life", we are tricked into choosing death. We chase after things we think will give us life. They do not. We place faith in them, and they fail us. To contrast this, Dr. Sams shows us how this Scripture points to Christ: The Way, The Truth, and The Life. God is our everlasting life. Jesus Christ's death and resurrection grants us access to no less, if we choose to take it.
The most difficult struggle in life is being a Christian. Very little is done to become a Christian, but to become more like Christ, to be identified as one of His followers, is arguably the greatest challenge we will face in life. Dr. Sams reminds us how important our Church community is in supporting us through life storms. We are Jesus to each other, filled with His Spirit, empowered to bring His healing, and His peace, and to be full of grace and truth.
The most difficult struggle in life is being a Christian. Very little is done to become a Christian, but to become more like Christ, to be identified as one of His followers, is arguably the greatest challenge we will face in life. Dr. Sams reminds us how important our Church community is in supporting us through life storms. We are Jesus to each other, filled with His Spirit, empowered to bring His healing, and His peace, and to be full of grace and truth.
Pastor Care Crawford exhorts us to draw near to Christ, to abide in Him. To bring Him to the center of our thought-life is essential to abiding in Christ. Abiding is not about including more religious activities or trying to be a better person. It is simply about spending time with Christ, practicing the basics of Christian living - reading scripture, prayer, regular (but simple) adoration of what God does as we see it. God's glory shines through His branches, but only if the branches are truly attached, or, abiding in The Vine.
Pastor Care Crawford exhorts us to draw near to Christ, to abide in Him. To bring Him to the center of our thought-life is essential to abiding in Christ. Abiding is not about including more religious activities or trying to be a better person. It is simply about spending time with Christ, practicing the basics of Christian living - reading scripture, prayer, regular (but simple) adoration of what God does as we see it. God's glory shines through His branches, but only if the branches are truly attached, or, abiding in The Vine.
Dr. Sams uses his personal experience with (believe it or not) black widow spiders to show us how we as people can link together to contribute to the strength and fortitude of our community. We each are "living stones" according to Scripture, unique and perfectly engineered to fit in the Body of Christ. This truth is crucial to our own spiritual health and the health of the Church. How does that relate to black widow spiders? Well how could I spoil that for you? You'll just have to watch or listen. If you do, I promise you will be encouraged by Christ's perfect architecture.
Dr. Sams uses his personal experience with (believe it or not) black widow spiders to show us how we as people can link together to contribute to the strength and fortitude of our community. We each are "living stones" according to Scripture, unique and perfectly engineered to fit in the Body of Christ. This truth is crucial to our own spiritual health and the health of the Church. How does that relate to black widow spiders? Well how could I spoil that for you? You'll just have to watch or listen. If you do, I promise you will be encouraged by Christ's perfect architecture.
Dr. Paul shows us how becoming Christian means the continual pursuit of abundant life - in other words, how to bring heaven on earth, but through us. Christ meets us as we pursue this abundant life. He asks us, as he asked Andrew in John 1:38, "What are you seeking?" No matter the answer, Christ leads us on a path to be more like Himself. Watch or listen to learn the direct relationship between discipleship and abundant life.
Dr. Paul shows us how becoming Christian means the continual pursuit of abundant life - in other words, how to bring heaven on earth, but through us. Christ meets us as we pursue this abundant life. He asks us, as he asked Andrew in John 1:38, "What are you seeking?" No matter the answer, Christ leads us on a path to be more like Himself. Watch or listen to learn the direct relationship between discipleship and abundant life.
In his last service at Bel Air Presbyterian Church, Dr. McKechnie recaps his time with us, and exhorts us to turn to our community, both inwardly (the Church) and outwardly (the city). He redirects Paul's epistle to the Ephesians to us, as Ephesus was a city full of influence much the way Los Angeles is today. Christ must be our anchor in such a place. Watch or listen to learn more.
In his last service at Bel Air Presbyterian Church, Dr. McKechnie recaps his time with us, and exhorts us to turn to our community, both inwardly (the Church) and outwardly (the city). He redirects Paul's epistle to the Ephesians to us, as Ephesus was a city full of influence much the way Los Angeles is today. Christ must be our anchor in such a place. Watch or listen to learn more.
Dr. Sams shows us what Scripture has to say about the family of God. Many of us have been less than enthusiastic about our brothers and sisters. They are all broken, and prone to hurt us. We sometimes take the unique and wonderful gift of being a brother or sister of Christ for granted. In order to grasp what it is to become a tighter family, we must allow God's Spirit to drive our behavior. Watch or listen to learn more. You might even learn a new word (wink wink).
Dr. Sams shows us what Scripture has to say about the family of God. Many of us have been less than enthusiastic about our brothers and sisters. They are all broken, and prone to hurt us. We sometimes take the unique and wonderful gift of being a brother or sister of Christ for granted. In order to grasp what it is to become a tighter family, we must allow God's Spirit to drive our behavior. Watch or listen to learn more. You might even learn a new word (wink wink).
Rev. Barber reminds us how wonderful and interdependent the church is, and how [what the world perceives as] weakness, can be transformed into a source of infinite strength. The meek, the eccentric, as well as the grand and the refined, are all assembled by Christ into a beautiful work of living art: the Church. We need each one. Each one hold unique value. Listen, and you will learn 10 practical truths on how you fit in the body of Christ.
Rev. Barber reminds us how wonderful and interdependent the church is, and how [what the world perceives as] weakness, can be transformed into a source of infinite strength. The meek, the eccentric, as well as the grand and the refined, are all assembled by Christ into a beautiful work of living art: the Church. We need each one. Each one hold unique value. Listen, and you will learn 10 practical truths on how you fit in the body of Christ.
Dr. McKechnie reminds us that the antidote to worry is trust. The prophet Isaiah reminds the Israelites in their grumbling, that they who wait upon God can be satisfied no matter their circumstance. The simple act of trusting in Christ, who never fails, brings the hope that quells the worry.
Dr. McKechnie reminds us that the antidote to worry is trust. The prophet Isaiah reminds the Israelites in their grumbling, that they who wait upon God can be satisfied no matter their circumstance. The simple act of trusting in Christ, who never fails, brings the hope that quells the worry.
In the concluding sermon of "The Road To Emmaus" series, Dr. Sams reminds us that the characters in the stories of the Old Testament: Adam & Eve, Abraham, Joseph, Esther, Job, David, Jonah, Joseph... Their stories point us (like signs) to He Who more than knows the secret to all good things. He is all good things. Endless goodness is found in Christ. We can spend our lives exploring and discovering more and more of that goodness. Listen or watch, and be reminded of and encouraged that goodness is ours.
In the concluding sermon of "The Road To Emmaus" series, Dr. Sams reminds us that the characters in the stories of the Old Testament: Adam & Eve, Abraham, Joseph, Esther, Job, David, Jonah, Joseph... Their stories point us (like signs) to He Who more than knows the secret to all good things. He is all good things. Endless goodness is found in Christ. We can spend our lives exploring and discovering more and more of that goodness. Listen or watch, and be reminded of and encouraged that goodness is ours.
The hallmark of the book of Jonah is Jonah's disobedience to preach to the infidel, pagan Ninevites, guilty of what would be called atrocities by almost any standard, ancient or modern. But there is a much more grave sin in the story than simple disobedience - one that has traditionally gone unnoticed. God's message to us in this is so important, as we are all tempted by this same sin. Many centuries later, Christ Himself will refer to the "sign of Jonah". Watch or listen to see the miracle of how God's righteousness eclipses our own.
The hallmark of the book of Jonah is Jonah's disobedience to preach to the infidel, pagan Ninevites, guilty of what would be called atrocities by almost any standard, ancient or modern. But there is a much more grave sin in the story than simple disobedience - one that has traditionally gone unnoticed. God's message to us in this is so important, as we are all tempted by this same sin. Many centuries later, Christ Himself will refer to the "sign of Jonah". Watch or listen to see the miracle of how God's righteousness eclipses our own.
Scripture gives us many stories about King David, more stories than any other character in the whole bible. As the fulfillment of Israel's request for a human king, Scripture tells us that David was a man after God's own heart. In this, God chose the best human king for Israel. But David was not perfect. Far from it. God's best choice for a human king still sinned greatly against God and man. Such is the way with all human kings. So God sent another king, not of this world, but to live in this world, and to die to save it. Christ is the fulfillment of everything David wanted to be, but could not be, because of his sinful nature. Watch or listen and learn more about how far Christ went to redeem us from our sin.
Scripture gives us many stories about King David, more stories than any other character in the whole bible. As the fulfillment of Israel's request for a human king, Scripture tells us that David was a man after God's own heart. In this, God chose the best human king for Israel. But David was not perfect. Far from it. God's best choice for a human king still sinned greatly against God and man. Such is the way with all human kings. So God sent another king, not of this world, but to live in this world, and to die to save it. Christ is the fulfillment of everything David wanted to be, but could not be, because of his sinful nature. Watch or listen and learn more about how far Christ went to redeem us from our sin.
Esther, the most secular book in the bible, contains a compelling story: A young girl puts her life on the line to save her people from genocide. The perpetrator comes just shy of success, but at the last minute, a twist occurs and the evil-doer is executed by his own wicked devices - an intense and compelling story of justice done. But filter this through the redemptive work of Christ, and the story magnifies. Watch or listen, and see how Esther's story further illuminates Christ's work.
Esther, the most secular book in the bible, contains a compelling story: A young girl puts her life on the line to save her people from genocide. The perpetrator comes just shy of success, but at the last minute, a twist occurs and the evil-doer is executed by his own wicked devices - an intense and compelling story of justice done. But filter this through the redemptive work of Christ, and the story magnifies. Watch or listen, and see how Esther's story further illuminates Christ's work.
A common hallmark of the book of Exodus is the moment Moses relays God's command to Pharoah: "Let my people go." In common culture, that's where the command ends. However, that's not what Scripture records. God continues, "so that they may worship me." We see that the Exodus is a journey from one master to another. Listen to learn how being a slave can bring you true freedom.
A common hallmark of the book of Exodus is the moment Moses relays God's command to Pharoah: "Let my people go." In common culture, that's where the command ends. However, that's not what Scripture records. God continues, "so that they may worship me." We see that the Exodus is a journey from one master to another. Listen to learn how being a slave can bring you true freedom.
Upon suffering, we cannot help but ask the question, "Why?" Even Christ asked it from the cross. In the book of Job, there are seemingly endless words from people trying to answer "Why?" for Job... but within their own purely human wisdom. The question has risk. We're prone to hold onto the answer itself more tightly than God. And in this, we can miss significant opportunities to grow in Christ. Listen or watch, and explore this universally human predicament.
Upon suffering, we cannot help but ask the question, "Why?" Even Christ asked it from the cross. In the book of Job, there are seemingly endless words from people trying to answer "Why?" for Job... but within their own purely human wisdom. The question has risk. We're prone to hold onto the answer itself more tightly than God. And in this, we can miss significant opportunities to grow in Christ. Listen or watch, and explore this universally human predicament.
Dr. Sams compares & contrasts the forgiveness of Joseph with the forgiveness of Christ. Joseph showed mercy to his brothers. But Christ has gone even further. God's forgiveness of our sins is more than mercy - it is justice. Watch to learn more. This particular truth, when it really sinks in, can change your life.
Dr. Sams compares & contrasts the forgiveness of Joseph with the forgiveness of Christ. Joseph showed mercy to his brothers. But Christ has gone even further. God's forgiveness of our sins is more than mercy - it is justice. Watch to learn more. This particular truth, when it really sinks in, can change your life.
Unpacking the most well-known religious story ever, Dr. Sams reveals a truth of Scripture that will carry any soul through any trial. Isaac asks his father Abraham a simple question: "Where is the lamb?" The answer is far more intriguing than it is obvious. Watch or listen to find out more.
Unpacking the most well-known religious story ever, Dr. Sams reveals a truth of Scripture that will carry any soul through any trial. Isaac asks his father Abraham a simple question: "Where is the lamb?" The answer is far more intriguing than it is obvious. Watch or listen to find out more.
Dr. Sams illustrates how people, ever since Adam and Eve, have settled for a shadow of the goodness we could have. We are incapable of making the choices that will lead us back to our lost paradise. But there is hope. God has made a way through Christ. We need not settle for shadows. We must simply believe Christ and His marvelous light will steer us to eternal life.
Dr. Sams illustrates how people, ever since Adam and Eve, have settled for a shadow of the goodness we could have. We are incapable of making the choices that will lead us back to our lost paradise. But there is hope. God has made a way through Christ. We need not settle for shadows. We must simply believe Christ and His marvelous light will steer us to eternal life.
In his first sermon as Senior Pastor, Drew Sams reminds us that God's Word is part of His power. He spoke and creation burst into existence. His Word is powerful and final. So no matter what the world says about us, no matter the darkness it tries to implant in us, God's Word continuously demonstrates His Love for His children, and His Word does not return void.
In his first sermon as Senior Pastor, Drew Sams reminds us that God's Word is part of His power. He spoke and creation burst into existence. His Word is powerful and final. So no matter what the world says about us, no matter the darkness it tries to implant in us, God's Word continuously demonstrates His Love for His children, and His Word does not return void.
Senior pastors from Bel Air Presbyterian Church, Christian Assembly Of Eagle Rock, and Fellowship Monrovia remind us of the good news of the Gospel. Jesus Christ rose from the dead. We must decide if we believe it, and how to act if we do believe it.
Senior pastors from Bel Air Presbyterian Church, Christian Assembly Of Eagle Rock, and Fellowship Monrovia remind us of the good news of the Gospel. Jesus Christ rose from the dead. We must decide if we believe it, and how to act if we do believe it.
Rev. Tim Yee from Union Church of Los Angeles opens the Scriptures to remind us that God never forsakes us, always loves us, and is faithful to renew us no matter how bad our situation may be. That promise is filled with eternal joy, and that joy eclipses any temporary suffering.
Rev. Tim Yee from Union Church of Los Angeles opens the Scriptures to remind us that God never forsakes us, always loves us, and is faithful to renew us no matter how bad our situation may be. That promise is filled with eternal joy, and that joy eclipses any temporary suffering.
Drew Sams, candidate for Pastor and Head Of Staff, illuminates the spirit of togetherness that occurred when Jesus rode into Jerusalem as a grass-roots king days before he was crucified.
Drew Sams, candidate for Pastor and Head Of Staff, illuminates the spirit of togetherness that occurred when Jesus rode into Jerusalem as a grass-roots king days before he was crucified.
The flawless, passionate love of God reaches to us all. We need only to accept it in faith. But sometimes our fear cripples us.
The flawless, passionate love of God reaches to us all. We need only to accept it in faith. But sometimes our fear cripples us.
If we understand this encounter between Christ and the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15, we can begin to understand the endless diversity of humankind not as a threat, but as an opportunity to show Christ's compassion and mercy. The Spirit of Christ enables us to reach out to others across all that divides us. This display of love is, without a doubt, the greatest movement humanity has ever seen. We can be part of it.
If we understand this encounter between Christ and the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15, we can begin to understand the endless diversity of humankind not as a threat, but as an opportunity to show Christ's compassion and mercy. The Spirit of Christ enables us to reach out to others across all that divides us. This display of love is, without a doubt, the greatest movement humanity has ever seen. We can be part of it.
Pastor Albert Tate of Fellowship Monrovia reminds us that we are called to great response for the great gift that God has given us.
Pastor Albert Tate of Fellowship Monrovia reminds us that we are called to great response for the great gift that God has given us.
A 95% commitment to Jesus Christ is still short. Our accomplishments and worldly credits mean nothing. We are such prideful hypocrites to think we can impress God. The truth is, we make cultural adaptations to our faith all the time. But Christ is clear: “Take up your cross and follow me.” You cannot do that 95%. It is a complex problem, but God’s grace allows us to deal with the complexity of living in Christ today.
A 95% commitment to Jesus Christ is still short. Our accomplishments and worldly credits mean nothing. We are such prideful hypocrites to think we can impress God. The truth is, we make cultural adaptations to our faith all the time. But Christ is clear: “Take up your cross and follow me.” You cannot do that 95%. It is a complex problem, but God’s grace allows us to deal with the complexity of living in Christ today.
There are 4 types of people who hear the gospel: indifferent, distracted, empty, and receptive. Believers have the gospel seed, and we are required to plant it, no matter the type of soil. People are either missionaries, or in need of a missionary. The world is desperate for good news. Christ befriended that world. We can do no less.
There are 4 types of people who hear the gospel: indifferent, distracted, empty, and receptive. Believers have the gospel seed, and we are required to plant it, no matter the type of soil. People are either missionaries, or in need of a missionary. The world is desperate for good news. Christ befriended that world. We can do no less.
When you end up in the desert, you're either there to grow or die. Christ was in the desert for 40 days, and conquered it perfectly. He is our example. Watch to learn more about the journey through the desert.
When you end up in the desert, you're either there to grow or die. Christ was in the desert for 40 days, and conquered it perfectly. He is our example. Watch to learn more about the journey through the desert.
Paul introduces God's perfect love to the Corinthians. It was foreign to them. They did not know God's persistent, absolute love that never gives up on us. It always has our best interests in mind. The Greek translation for that kind of love is Agape. Just as a parent is pleased with their child when they follow in their parent's best virtues, God is pleased with us when we practice Agape toward our neighbor.
Paul introduces God's perfect love to the Corinthians. It was foreign to them. They did not know God's persistent, absolute love that never gives up on us. It always has our best interests in mind. The Greek translation for that kind of love is Agape. Just as a parent is pleased with their child when they follow in their parent's best virtues, God is pleased with us when we practice Agape toward our neighbor.
Antidote to losing heart: That they might be strengthened with might in the in-dwelling Christ.
Antidote to losing heart: That they might be strengthened with might in the in-dwelling Christ.
Dr. Paul opens the Scriptures to show us what can be learned from the Ethiopian Eunuch. Chances are his life was empty spiritually. He sought the God of Israel & learned from the Apostle Phillip, who baptized him. But it was the Scriptures and the Spirit of God that did the work in the Eunuch's heart. God's Word and His Holy Spirit can do the same for us.
Prayer is connecting our thoughts with God thoughts. Effective prayer is not measured by how much we can get out of God. It's measured by how much of ourselves we are ready to turn over to God's management. Comfort, consumption & control are enemies of prayer. If you write your benefits in sand & care your injuries in marble, you need not pray.
Prayer is connecting our thoughts with God thoughts. Effective prayer is not measured by how much we can get out of God. It's measured by how much of ourselves we are ready to turn over to God's management. Comfort, consumption & control are enemies of prayer. If you write your benefits in sand & care your injuries in marble, you need not pray.
Dr. McKechnie teaches us to test the spirits as Scripture commands, but to also allow our imaginations to be influenced by the Holy Spirit. The Gospel has power. Ask yourself, "If the Holy Spirit would not let you fail, what would you do?"
Dr. McKechnie teaches us to test the spirits as Scripture commands, but to also allow our imaginations to be influenced by the Holy Spirit. The Gospel has power. Ask yourself, "If the Holy Spirit would not let you fail, what would you do?"
Christ is our Good Shepherd. We are as helpless spiritually as sheep are helpless practically. We require Christ, our Good Shepherd, to guide us. And he does guide us through dark valleys, leading us to share each other's burdens, to taste the salt of the tears of others, and to take the good news of his merciful guidance to the world.
Christ is our Good Shepherd. We are as helpless spiritually as sheep are helpless practically. We require Christ, our Good Shepherd, to guide us. And he does guide us through dark valleys, leading us to share each other's burdens, to taste the salt of the tears of others, and to take the good news of his merciful guidance to the world.
Pastor of Outreach, Rev. Enock De Assis, reminds us of the power of God moving through his church, displaying the glory of His Son Jesus, the light and hope of the world. As the bride of Christ, the church is the people of the Book, and the community of love.
Pastor of Outreach, Rev. Enock De Assis, reminds us of the power of God moving through his church, displaying the glory of His Son Jesus, the light and hope of the world. As the bride of Christ, the church is the people of the Book, and the community of love.
Reverend Dr. David McKechnie tell the story of the wise man on their way to meet the savior of the world.
Reverend Dr. David McKechnie tell the story of the wise man on their way to meet the savior of the world.
Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley, Pastor To The Entertainment Industry, opens the Word to teach us about God's presence.
Rev. Kim Dorr-Tilley, Pastor To The Entertainment Industry, opens the Word to teach us about God's presence.
Reverend Dr. David McKechnie talks on the importance of Christ during our Christmas Eve Service.
Reverend Dr. David McKechnie talks on the importance of Christ during our Christmas Eve Service.
Reverend Dr. David McKechnie enlightens us on what the name of Jesus Christ truly means.
Reverend Dr. David McKechnie enlightens us on what the name of Jesus Christ truly means.
Dr. McKechnie reminds us how God proved His love for us by sending His Son into the world to illuminate our darkness.
Dr. McKechnie reminds us how God proved His love for us by sending His Son into the world to illuminate our darkness.
Dr. McKechnie shows us how Isaiah the prophet foretold the peace that would come through the Christ child, a baby. Furthermore, the news was first spread by lowly shepherds. In using the weak (Shepherds, babies) to spread peace, God's love toward us is grandly displayed. We likewise, can be used to spread God's peace, no matter our circumstances.
Dr. McKechnie shows us how Isaiah the prophet foretold the peace that would come through the Christ child, a baby. Furthermore, the news was first spread by lowly shepherds. In using the weak (Shepherds, babies) to spread peace, God's love toward us is grandly displayed. We likewise, can be used to spread God's peace, no matter our circumstances.
On the first Sunday of Advent, Rev. Keenan Barber examines the path from suffering to hope that Christ has laid out for us, and challenges us to orient ourselves toward that hope which will never disappoint.
On the first Sunday of Advent, Rev. Keenan Barber examines the path from suffering to hope that Christ has laid out for us, and challenges us to orient ourselves toward that hope which will never disappoint.
Dr. McKechnie opens the Word for us, reminding us how crucial gratitude is to our daily lives.
Dr. McKechnie opens the Word for us, reminding us how crucial gratitude is to our daily lives.
Dr. Paul explores a deeper level of what Jesus meant when He told us "The kingdom of heaven is at hand." Then, he challenges us to let God bring his kingdom in our own lives - to let Him lead us.
Dr. Paul explores a deeper level of what Jesus meant when He told us "The kingdom of heaven is at hand." Then, he challenges us to let God bring his kingdom in our own lives - to let Him lead us.
Pastor James Byensi from Bunia Evangelical Church in Democartic Republic Of Congo opens the Word to reveal to us how we can better serve our neighbors who are suffering.
Pastor James Byensi from Bunia Evangelical Church in Democartic Republic Of Congo opens the Word to reveal to us how we can better serve our neighbors who are suffering.
Pastor James Byensi from the Democratic Republic of Congo exhorts us in the practice and power of prayer in our lives.
Rev. Jim Birchfield of First Presbyterian Church, Houston, TX, opens the Word to remind us that the Gospel allows us to choose joy over fear, prayer over worry, and to stretch our faith in Christ.
Rev. Jim Birchfield of First Presbyterian Church, Houston, TX, opens the Word to remind us that the Gospel allows us to choose joy over fear, prayer over worry, and to stretch our faith in Christ.
Rev. Tim Yee, Senior Pastor of Union Church challenges us to allow God to show us the areas where we most need spiritual growth, and stretch us in those areas to pursue His kingdom at the expense of some worldly comfort.
Rev. Tim Yee, Senior Pastor of Union Church challenges us to allow God to show us the areas where we most need spiritual growth, and stretch us in those areas to pursue His kingdom at the expense of some worldly comfort.
At the 6 PM service, Dr. Bob Paul explores how we find healing through the wounds of Christ.
At the 6 PM service, Dr. Bob Paul explores how we find healing through the wounds of Christ.
Explores how to receive wisdom from God, impart that wisdom to children, and trust God to help us with both.
Explores how to receive wisdom from God, impart that wisdom to children, and trust God to help us with both.
The President of Regent University, Dr. Carlos Campo, exhorts us always remember God in our lives, as He never forgets us, and always takes care of our needs.
The President of Regent University, Dr. Carlos Campo, exhorts us always remember God in our lives, as He never forgets us, and always takes care of our needs.
God pursues people using His children as ministers of the gospel, in order to reconcile our separation from Him and draw us to Himself.
God pursues people using His children as ministers of the gospel, in order to reconcile our separation from Him and draw us to Himself.
What is there of your spiritual pilgrimage that is worth yelling about in this culture?
What is there of your spiritual pilgrimage that is worth yelling about in this culture?
Doubt with dignity. Did Thomas ever touch the wounds of Jesus? A Christian’s admonition is to doubt your doubts.
Doubt with dignity. Did Thomas ever touch the wounds of Jesus? A Christian’s admonition is to doubt your doubts.
Guest speaker Francis Chan issues a call to follow Jesus Christ, who deserves our full devotion.
Guest speaker Francis Chan issues a call to follow Jesus Christ, who deserves our full devotion.
A wave or a waiver? The crowd waved Jesus in on Palm Sunday but waved him out on Good Friday. When it comes to following Jesus, are we giving him a wave or taking him a waiver?
A wave or a waiver? The crowd waved Jesus in on Palm Sunday but waved him out on Good Friday. When it comes to following Jesus, are we giving him a wave or taking him a waiver?
Simon was forced to take the cross on his shoulder and follow the drained Jesus to Golgotha, the crucifixion site. What does it mean to take up the cross today?
Simon was forced to take the cross on his shoulder and follow the drained Jesus to Golgotha, the crucifixion site. What does it mean to take up the cross today?
Pilate washed his hands as if water could cleanse the blood stains from the Son of God. We all struggle with unholy compromises.
Pilate washed his hands as if water could cleanse the blood stains from the Son of God. We all struggle with unholy compromises.
Heavenly Father, we beseech thee to look in thy mercy upon this household. Grant that every member of it may be taught and guided of thee. Bless the relations and friends of each of us; thou knowest their several necessities; and prosper our efforts to advance thy kingdom at home and abroad; for our Lord Jesus Christ's sake. -A.C. Taut, 1811-82
Heavenly Father, we beseech thee to look in thy mercy upon this household. Grant that every member of it may be taught and guided of thee. Bless the relations and friends of each of us; thou knowest their several necessities; and prosper our efforts to advance thy kingdom at home and abroad; for our Lord Jesus Christ's sake. -A.C. Taut, 1811-82
Merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against You in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved You with our whole heart and mind and strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. In Your mercy forgive what we have been, help us amend what we are, and direct what we shall be, so that we may delight in Your will and walk in Your ways, to the glory of Your holy name.
Merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against You in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved You with our whole heart and mind and strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. In Your mercy forgive what we have been, help us amend what we are, and direct what we shall be, so that we may delight in Your will and walk in Your ways, to the glory of Your holy name.
O God, bless and preserve they Church dispersed over the face of the earth. Restore to it unity and concord, in the acknowledgement of the Truth and the practice of righteousness. Remove out of it all errors and dissensions, that they who profess the same faith may no longer persecute and destroy one another, as it becomes brethren and those that are heirs of the same common salvation. -King William III, 1650-1702
O God, bless and preserve they Church dispersed over the face of the earth. Restore to it unity and concord, in the acknowledgement of the Truth and the practice of righteousness. Remove out of it all errors and dissensions, that they who profess the same faith may no longer persecute and destroy one another, as it becomes brethren and those that are heirs of the same common salvation. -King William III, 1650-1702
Rob Weingartner is Executive Director of The Outreach Foundation, a mission agency that engages Presbyterians and global partners in proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ. The Outreach Foundation’s priorities include building the capacity of global partners, sending and supporting missionaries, caring for vulnerable children, expanding support for mission and transforming lives through mission engagement. Enock DeAssis serves on The Outreach Foundation board. Rob’s ministry takes him across the country and around the world. Prior to coming to Outreach, Rob pastored congregations in Indiana and Ohio. He and his wife, Terry, live in Tennessee and have three grown sons.
Rob Weingartner is Executive Director of The Outreach Foundation, a mission agency that engages Presbyterians and global partners in proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ. The Outreach Foundation’s priorities include building the capacity of global partners, sending and supporting missionaries, caring for vulnerable children, expanding support for mission and transforming lives through mission engagement. Enock DeAssis serves on The Outreach Foundation board. Rob’s ministry takes him across the country and around the world. Prior to coming to Outreach, Rob pastored congregations in Indiana and Ohio. He and his wife, Terry, live in Tennessee and have three grown sons.
Hunter's career has been devoted to international mission with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). He served as a missionary in Africa and South America and is currently the Director of the General Assembly Council's World Mission program area. He oversees all aspects of the PC(USA)'s mission service and recruitment. In addition, he coordinates the denomination's missionary work with ecumenical and international church partners. Farrell and his wife, Ruth, served as a mission co-worker in Peru, in partnership with the Presbyterian Hunger Program.
The Farrells have three children - Ndaya, Billy and Andrew.
Hunter's career has been devoted to international mission with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). He served as a missionary in Africa and South America and is currently the Director of the General Assembly Council's World Mission program area. He oversees all aspects of the PC(USA)'s mission service and recruitment. In addition, he coordinates the denomination's missionary work with ecumenical and international church partners. Farrell and his wife, Ruth, served as a mission co-worker in Peru, in partnership with the Presbyterian Hunger Program.
The Farrells have three children - Ndaya, Billy and Andrew.
Almighty and merciful God, from whom comes all that is good, we praise you for your mercies, for your goodness that has created us, your grace that has sustained us, your discipline that has corrected us, your patience that has borne with us, and your love that has redeemed us.
Help us to love you, and to be thankful for all your gifts by serving you and delighting to do your will, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Almighty and merciful God, from whom comes all that is good, we praise you for your mercies, for your goodness that has created us, your grace that has sustained us, your discipline that has corrected us, your patience that has borne with us, and your love that has redeemed us.
Help us to love you, and to be thankful for all your gifts by serving you and delighting to do your will, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? Look on me and answer, O Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death; my enemy will say, "I have overcome him," and my foes will rejoice when I fall. But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me. Psalm 13:1-6 (NIV)
Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord. Happy are those who keep His decrees, who seek Him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in His ways. You have commanded Your precepts to be kept diligently. O that my ways may be steadfast in keeping Your statutes! Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all Your commandments. I will praise You with an upright heart, when I learn Your righteous ordinances. I will observe Your statutes; do not utterly forsake me. How can young people keep their way pure? By guarding it according to Your word. With my whole heart I seek You; do not let me stray from Your commandments. Psalm 119:1-10
Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord. Happy are those who keep His decrees, who seek Him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in His ways. You have commanded Your precepts to be kept diligently. O that my ways may be steadfast in keeping Your statutes! Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all Your commandments. I will praise You with an upright heart, when I learn Your righteous ordinances. I will observe Your statutes; do not utterly forsake me. How can young people keep their way pure? By guarding it according to Your word. With my whole heart I seek You; do not let me stray from Your commandments. Psalm 119:1-10
Gracious God and most merciful Father, who has given us the rich and precious jewel of Your holy Word: assist us with Your Spirit so that Your Word may be written in our heart for our everlasting comfort, to reform us, to renew us to be like Your image, to build us up in the perfect heavenly virtues. Grant this, heavenly Father, for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Gracious God and most merciful Father, who has given us the rich and precious jewel of Your holy Word: assist us with Your Spirit so that Your Word may be written in our heart for our everlasting comfort, to reform us, to renew us to be like Your image, to build us up in the perfect heavenly virtues. Grant this, heavenly Father, for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Gracious God and most merciful Father, who has given us the rich and precious jewel of Your holy Word: assist us with Your Spirit so that Your Word may be written in our heart for our everlasting comfort, to reform us, to renew us to be like Your image, to build us up in the perfect heavenly virtues. Grant this, heavenly Father, for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen. The Geneva Bible, attributed to King Edward VI, pg. 264
Gracious God and most merciful Father, who has given us the rich and precious jewel of Your holy Word: assist us with Your Spirit so that Your Word may be written in our heart for our everlasting comfort, to reform us, to renew us to be like Your image, to build us up in the perfect heavenly virtues. Grant this, heavenly Father, for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen. The Geneva Bible, attributed to King Edward VI, pg. 264
Blessed Lord, who hast caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: grant that we may in such wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and comfort of Thy holy Word, we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which Thou hast given us in our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. Book of Common Prayer, 1549, Collect, Second Sunday in Advent, pg. 264
Blessed Lord, who hast caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: grant that we may in such wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and comfort of Thy holy Word, we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which Thou hast given us in our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. Book of Common Prayer, 1549, Collect, Second Sunday in Advent, pg. 264
Eternal God, our heavenly Father, who loves us with an everlasting love: Help us now to wait on You with reverent and submissive hearts, that we, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, may have hope, and be lifted above our distress into the light and peace of Your presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Eternal God, our heavenly Father, who loves us with an everlasting love: Help us now to wait on You with reverent and submissive hearts, that we, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, may have hope, and be lifted above our distress into the light and peace of Your presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Loving God, breath into our hearts and minds Your loving and guiding Word. Inspire us by Your Spirit, that we may hear, and later do, what You would have us hear and do. Richard Baxter, 1615-91
Loving God, breath into our hearts and minds Your loving and guiding Word. Inspire us by Your Spirit, that we may hear, and later do, what You would have us hear and do. Richard Baxter, 1615-91
Teach us, O Lord, to love You, to trust You and forever to praise you. Let us exalt Your name both in the day and in the night. Let us serve You both in the house of prayer and in the world about us. Let us ascribe to You with all Your saints both wisdom and majesty, both honor and glory, world without end. Amen. -Henry Vaughan, 1621-1695
Teach us, O Lord, to love You, to trust You and forever to praise you. Let us exalt Your name both in the day and in the night. Let us serve You both in the house of prayer and in the world about us. Let us ascribe to You with all Your saints both wisdom and majesty, both honor and glory, world without end. Amen. -Henry Vaughan, 1621-1695
Lord, heal and open my eyes that I may recognize Your will. Show me the road I must travel that I may see You. Amen.
-Augustine of Hippo, 354-430, pg. 113
Lord, heal and open my eyes that I may recognize Your will. Show me the road I must travel that I may see You. Amen.
-Augustine of Hippo, 354-430, pg. 113
Dr. Daniel Gilbert preaches that Calvin was a man after God's own heart. He was, and remains, controversial in many circles; however his impact on the Christian church is undeniable.
Kim Dorr, Bel Air Pres' Pastor to the Entertainment Industry, calls the congregation to not merely disavow the culture, but engage it, and change it, by the power of God's love.
Pastor Mark continues his series, "The More Things Change..." reaching the 18th century. He details how Christianity was the foundation of the politics of liberty as it took root in America.
Pastor Mark continues his church history series, "The More Things Change..." with the theme, "New Lands, New People to Reach."
Pastor Mark continues his series on "The More Things Change..." by describing how the likes of Luther, Zwingli and Calvin revitalized the church with their teachings that the just shall live by FAITH, alone.
Pastor Mark continues his series on "The More Things Change..." chronicling church history, and how we can learn from those who have gone before us. Mark addresses how technology in all of its forms has been resisted by the church, but then ultimately used for Christ's glory.
Pastor Mark describes spiritual warfare, both past and present. We DO have an enemy - but we are not powerless against him! God has given us His spiritual armor!
Three BAPC members share how they were in various addictions, but Jesus delivered them through programs like Celebrate Recovery.
Three BAPC members share how they were in various addictions, but Jesus delivered them through programs like Celebrate Recovery....
Pastor Roger encourages dads to become GREAT dads by loving their mother, being a spiritual leader in the home, etc.
Pastor Mark continues his Church History series. The 13th century features St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Francis of Assisi, and St. Claire.
Pastor Mark addressed the Students of Bel Air with the theme: "Surviving as Young Adults in a Crazy World".
Pastor Mark talks about humbleness and perseverance in changing Los Angeles to make it the greatest city for Christ.
Pastor Mark describes how a Christian can live a life with peace, even during the worst storms that life can throw at you - even the end of the age.
Dr. Keith Phillips describes the incredible opportunity we have in Los Angeles to change the world by changing the inner city.
Pastor Mark continues his post-Easter series on the book of 1 Peter - describing from Chapter 3 how we are to act in marriage and family relationships.
Pastor Mark continues his post-Easter series, "Know Hope" out of the book of 1 Peter. This week is Chapter 2: "Experiencing True Holiness"
Rev. Jesse Lee Peterson shared his testimony, as an African American born on a plantation in the deep south, how God helped him overcome his deep resentments, addictions and anger to a life of perfect peace, even in the midst of turmoil.
Pastor Mark affirms the certainty of the resurrection at our Easter Sunday service at the Hollywood Bowl.
Pastor Mark wraps up the Lenten Series, "Then Sings My Soul" with a Palm Sunday sermon on "Hoping: The Cry for Relief in Pain."
Pastor Mark continues our Lenten series on the theme "Waiting:The Cry for Strength to Prevail".
Pastor Mark continues our Lenten series, "Then Sings My Soul..." with the theme: Lamenting: The Cry for Things to be Right.
Pastor Kim Dorr continues our Lenten Series, preaching from Psalm 73 on the theme, Doubting:The Cry to Trust.
Pastor Mark continues the Lenten Series. This week is Psalm 90: The Cry to be Significant
Pastor Enock begins our Lenten series detailing how Psalm 1 is relevent in our lives today.
Pastor Mark prepares the congregation with words of encouragement as we move toward Lent.
Pastor Mark continues his serires, "The More Things Change...The More Things Stay the Same". The theme of this sermon is: "Knowing How Long to Stay on the Bus."
Pastor Mark continues his sermon series on "The More Things Change...The More They Stay the Same" Theme: Responding to a World Falling Apart.
Pastor Mark continues his series, "The More Things Change..." delving into Church history, and how it affects us today.
Pastor Mark continues in his series "The More Things Change..." this week addressing the beginning of the Dark Ages, and how it affected the church.
Pastor Mark describes the onset of Islam and how it affected the Christian Church both then and now.
Pastor Mark concludes the Advent series by exhorting the congregation to embrace their status as "children of God" and walk in confidence of His love and His desire to work in and through us.
Pastor Mark continues the Advent series, "He Shall Be Called' as the prophet Zechariah foreshadows the coming of the Messiah.
Pastor Kim Dorr opens the Advent Series, "He Shall Be Called..." with a messianic prophecy from the book of Zechariah
Keenan Barber concludes the "Go" series with "The Great Commission" as listed in Matthew 28.
Pastor Mark describes the courage of Joshua taking over the Israelites conquest of Canaan after Moses' death.
Pastor Mark starts the Go series with a sermon on Abraham, and how he moved according to God's direction, even when it presented great difficulties.
Pastor Samuel Olson of Caracas, Venezuela preached the 11 am service at Bel Air Presbyterian Church.
Rev. Ponraj (Bihar, India) addresses the congregation of Bel Air Presbyterian Church regarding the mission and power of God living through us.
Pastor Fayez leads the outreach program at the largest Christian church in Cairo, and he shares the exciting things God is doing in the Middle East.
Pastor Mark continues his series, "What's your S.Q.?" based on his book, "What is Your Sprititual Quotient?"
Pastor Mark continues his sermon series taken from his new book, "What's Your Spiritual Quotient?"
Pastor Mark begins his sermon series on the Four Sentinels. (Pastor Mark has a book by a similar title, "What's Your Spiritual Quotient?")
Pastor Mark addresses how it often appears that the wicked are prospering while the righteous suffer. In it all, God is still present.
Pastor Mark concludes his comparative religion series with a study of Islam and Christianity.
David Brickner of Jews for Jesus spoke regarding Jesus' last words to his disciples immediately prior to his ascension.
Pastor Mark describes how L.A. makes the "culture" for the nation, and how we as Christians can influence the culture than influences the world!
Pastor Mark begins his series on comparative religions by demonstrating where Hinduism and Christianity are similar - and where they are not.
Pastor Mark further clarifies the mission of Bel Air to make Los Angeles the Greatest City for Christ
Was Rome Christianized...or was Christianity Romanized? Pastor Brewer contends that the answer to that is...YES.
Pastor Mark begins his series describing how the Church, throughout history has dealth with similar problems we're facing today.
Dr. Mark Brewer desribes Paul's relationship with the mother of Rufus, a follower of Jesus.
Pastor Mark continues the Post-Easter series, "Give Me Jesus...Hold the Church." Family fights and decisions in the household of faith.
Part One of a series in which Pastor Mark describes how the world views the church. This week's "charge" is that the church is hypocritical, and therefore, has no authority.
Pastor Mark preaches on the new life Jesus gives at the Hollywood Bowl for Easter Sunday.
Pastor Mark describes how Jesus turned Zaccheus' empty life as a turncoat tax collector into a life worth living.
Mark describes the story of Mary and Martha, and how human anxieties, submitted to Jesus, can accomplish much!
How to Pray for a Nation and a Culture. Theme: Discerning How to Pray for Social Issues
Engaging the Culture: "How Selfish Are We?" - Interview w/Bobby Shriver, Mayor ProTem/Santa Monica at 9 am ; Interview w/ Zev Yaroslovsky at 11 am
Scandalous Salvation: Finding God's Salvation in Unlikely Places - Breaking Out of our Boxes and Taboos
A Testimony to God's Grace : Stephen Lungu gives a stirring testimony of his transformation from an abandoned, angry young man to finding salvation and reconciliation through Jesus Christ.
The Impact of: Serving Together. Jesus Christ sent them out together It was not just an adventure, or expedition, it was a mission. The impact of going together on others, and on us. The three areas of growth from each mission. Growing in our knowledge of the Word. Growing in our accountable relationships. Growing in our development of spiritual giftedness. The sacrament of failure - God's perspective.
Everlasting Father
Sermon Notes: I. Literally "Father/Founder of Ages" (avi -ad) A. The Mystery of "begotten" of God B. The Mystery of the Creator becoming CreationII. The Beginning of "The Age to Come" A. Learning 'future living in the present' B. The unstoppable invasion of hope
Mighty God
Sermon Notes: The Power of God's Imagery (Isaiah 9:6-7) His birth place (Micah 5:2-4) His fulfillment (Matthew 2:1-6) The Mystery of the Child "Mighty God" The King of the Kingdom in our Midst
GOD IS LOVE...So Learn How to Pray for Others
Songs and Hymns:
Praise to the Lord, the AlmightyHoly, Holy, Holy
Agnus Dei from Chichester MassSanctus from Chichester Mass
The Lords PrayerFlos Campi, Movement 6
Sermon Notes: 1) Learning how to pray for others Prayers of Confidence (I John 5:13-15) Prayers of Compassion (I John 5:16) Prayers of Conviction (I John 5:17) 2) Releasing the power of prayer in our lives (I John 5:18-21)
GOD IS LOVE...So Beware of False Teachers
Songs and Hymns:
Lead On, O King EternalString Quintet in D minor, Movement 2
Kyrie from Mass in G MajorO Sacred Head, Now Wounded
When in Our Music God Is GlorifiedLift Up Your Heads
Sermon Notes: 1) Test the spirits for Truth (I John 4:1-6) Not all attractive teachings are truth Sincerity does not equal innocence Heresy is "truth out of balance" Jesus is the litmus test 2) Live the life of Love (I John 4:7-21) The bold confidence we have in God's love for us
GOD IS LOVE...So Beware of False Teachers
Songs and Hymns:
Lift Up Your HeadsWhen in Our Music God Is Glorified
O Sacred Head, Now WoundedKyrie from Mass in G Major
String Quintet in D minor, Movement 2Lead On, O King Eternal
Sermon Notes: 1) Test the spirits for Truth (I John 4:1-6) Not all attractive teachings are truth Sincerity does not equal innocence Heresy is "truth out of balance" Jesus is the litmus test 2) Live the life of Love (I John 4:7-21) The bold confidence we have in God's love for us
GOD IS LOVE...So Share Your Blessings with Others
Songs and Hymns:
Now thank we all our GodOur great Savior
BeatitudesGreat is thy faithfulness
The Church in Times of Opportunity: Freedom in Christ and dignity of work
Songs and Hymns:
Bread of GodCome, Thou Fount of Every Blessing
Rejoice Ye Shining Worlds On HighEyes of Heaven
`The Church's One Foundation
Sermon Notes:
The Body of Christ Enacted at Communion (ch. 11)The Body of Christ Empowered in Service (ch. 12)
Serving GiftsEquipping Gifts
Worship GiftsJonathan Edwards and the Church in the Marketplace
The Church in Times of Conflict: Worship, Sacraments and Spiritual Gifts
Songs and Hymns:
All People That on Earth Do DwellHow Blest Are They Who, Fearing God
Old Hundredth Psalm TuneForth in Your Name, O Lord, I Go
Sermon Notes:
God's Gifts are for God's PeaceThe Gift of singleness and marriage (ch. 7)
The Gift of freedom from the law (ch. 8-10)The Gift of spiritual gifts (ch. 12-14)
John Calvin and John KnoxCalvin's challenge of Church unity at Geneva
`Knox's challenge for Church unity in Scotland
The Church Begins: How do we know what God wants us to do?
Songs and Hymns:
And The Glory of the Lord Shall Be RevealedLet the Whole Creation Cry
Exsultate, Jubilate MovementO Sacred Head, Now Wounded
Sermon Notes:
Acts 15 - The First Church Council
Four Corners of Discerning God's Leading
ScriptureReason
Community (past and present)Inner Leading
For Goodness Sake: The Pursuit of Goodness vs. the Pursuit of Jesus
Songs and Hymns:
O Taste and SeeWe Are Called to Be God's People
It Is Well with My SoulYou Set Me Free
`Rise Up, O Saints of God!
Psalm 139: The Attributes of Our Great God
Songs and Hymns:
I Sing the Mighty Power of GodOpen Thou My Eyes (Rutter)
Christ Be My LeaderGod of Creation, All-Powerful
Be Thou My VisionIll Fly Away
`Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
More than Hymns & Praise: The Three Directions of Worship
Songs and Hymns:
Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God AlmightyAll Creatures of Our God and King
Fairest Lord JesusWhen in Our Music God Is Glorified
My Jesus I Love TheeJesus Shall Reign
Sermon Notes: I. Upward: Adoring Gods Majesty II. Inward: Acknowledging My Misery III. Outward: Accepting Our Mandate
Psalm 73: Where is God's Justice in Life?
Songs and Hymns:
Like a River GloriousGood Shepherd, Take This Little Child
Holy, Holy, HolyGod's Holy Ways Are Just and True
Sermon Notes: I. Worship reveals who we really are A. The difference between questions about God, and doubting God II. Worship reveals who God really is III. Worship reveals what God is doing
Judaism: How Christianity Agrees and Disagrees with Judaism
Songs and Hymns: "Ver Hat Aza Yingele?" "How Blest Are They Who, Fearing God" "Amazing Grace" "O for a Closer Walk with God" "In This Very Room"
Sermon Notes:
Where Christianity and Judaism Agree;
Orthodox, Conservative, Reformed JudaismTeNaK (Torah, Neviim, Ketuvim) reveals God
`Humanity's sin is the primary issue
Where the Gospel and Judaism Disagree;
Jesus is the Messiah and SaviorPrayer, repentance, and good deeds aren't enough
`Righteousness is now transferred by faith
Islam: How Christianity Agrees and Disagrees with Islam
Songs and Hymns:
Praise, My Soul, the King of HeavenWe Believe in God Almighty
O for a Thousand Tongues to SingAmazing Grace
`We Are Called to Be God's People
Sermon Notes:
Where Christianity and Islam Agree;
There is One GodThere is a Right Way to live
`There is a Judgment Day
Where the Gospel and Islam Disagree;
The Bible is the true recordJesus in more than a prophet
Salvation is from GraceConversion is from persuasion vs. coercion
Buddhism: How Christianity Agrees and Disagrees with Buddhism
Songs and Hymns: "Of the Father's Love Begotten" "We Believe in God Almighty" "Lord, Who Throughout" "Christ for the World! We Sing"
Sermon Notes: Where Christianity and Buddhism Agree; Siddharta Gotama (6th century BC) Life is a pain-filled journey. Our corrupted desires create much misery. There is a place of eternal fulfillment.
Where the Gospel and Buddhism Disagree; The only Buddha (savior) is the Person and work of Jesus Christ. We all live only one life - no reincarnation (Hebrews 9:27). Desires in themselves are not the problem, but the corrupted desires of our sinful nature. Nirvana is not the goal, but the presence of God in a new world and a new heaven.
Hinduism: How Christianity Agrees and Disagrees with Hinduism
Songs and Hymns:
Glorious Things of Thee Are SpokenWe Believe in God Almighty
`When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
Sermon Notes: I. Where We Agree: A) Life is more than the physical B) There are consequences for moral behavior C) Life can be better than it is now II. Where We Disagree - For the Christian: A) Ultimate reality is the Person of God B) Sin is the problem, not ignorant illusion C) Salvation is from grace, outside of the self
Jesus Is LORD: The Confession that Changes the World
Songs and Hymns:
Come to Zion (arr. K. Siegfried)America, the Beautiful (D. Bird)
Jubilate (H. Howells)My Country, Tis of Thee
`O For A Thousand Tongues to Sing
Sermon Notes: I. The First Confession A. The Confession Against Culture B. Against Rival Lords II. What Shall We Do?
How To Start Something That Will Last Forever: Responding to Jesus' Challenges
Songs and Hymns:
Let All Things Now LivingCome, All Christians, Be Committed
Awake My Heart (J. Marshall)You Raise Me Up
`I Surrender All
Psalm Eight: The Vital Role of the Young in God's Kingdom (Student Sunday)
Songs and Hymns:
Quoniam Tu Solus Sanctus from Gloria (A. Vivaldi)Let the Whole Creation Cry
For the Beauty of the EarthWhen in Our Music God Is Glorified
Be Thou My VisionGive Us Clean Hands
`Forever (C. Tomlin)
Sermon Notes: I. God's Nature Revealed Through Creation II. God's Nature Revealed Through the Young III. God's Nature in Sharing Stewardship of Life
Psalm One: Discovering the Greatest Way to Live
Songs and Hymns:
Come, We That Love the Lord (D. Bird)Come, We That Love the Lord
In That Great Gettin Up Mornin (J. Hairston)The Lords Prayer
Sermon Notes: I. The Role of the Psalms A) In Israels life and Judaism B) In the churchs life C) In our own lives II. Psalm OneThe Introductory Psalm A) The two ways to live B) Truth and consequences C) Jesus Christ and Psalm one (the Way, the Truth, the Life)
Rush of Violent Wind: The Sound of Heaven Through Lives Lived Together
Songs and Hymns:
Come, Gracious Spirit (P. Sjolund)Come Thou Almighty King
Spirit of the Living GodLift Up Your Heads, O Ye Gates (W. Mathias)
`For All the Saints
The Sheer Joy of the Harvest: Celebrating God's Work in Advance
Songs and Hymns:
Gloria move. 1 (J. Rutter)Joyful, Joyful (arr. A. Parker)
This Is My Fathers WorldPraise God (F. Bock)
`Now Thank We All Our God
Sermon Notes: I. The Joy in the Sowing (John 4:31) A) Unlocking hidden potential B) Gods fresh new beginnings in life II. The Joy in the Growing (Mark 4:26) A) Letting life grow at Gods speed B) Unstoppable stages of Gods laws III. The Joy in the Mowing A) Sower and Reaper rejoicing together B) Taking advance withdrawals on heavens joy
A Worthy Offering: Determining What Sacrifice Means
Songs and Hymns:
Let All the Angels of God Worship HimHoly, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty
When in Our Music God Is GlorifiedHallelujah (W.A. Mozart)
`Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Sermon Notes: I. What is a sacrifice? (II Samuel 24:18) A) It is RELATIVE B) It is COSTLY C) It is VALUE-DRIVEN II. The Campaign For Bel Air (Luke 12:13) A) We have an OPPORTUNITY B) We have a DUTY C) We have a PRIVILEGE
Extreme Makeover: Changing Your Appearance vs. Changing Your Character
Songs and Hymns:
Come, Christians, Join to SingThank You
This Is a Mothers PrayerLove Divine, All Loves Excelling
The Providence of God: God' s Provision for Those Who Give
Songs and Hymns:
How Firm a FoundationSanctus
`We Are God's People
Sermon Notes: I. The Miracle of Feeding the Five Thousand A) Only miracle recorded by all four Gospels B) Mark's fascination with Jesus' hands (Mark 6:30-44) C) The role of children in Jesus' ministry II. The Values of Life A) The instrumental value of money B) The intrinsic value of people C) The increasing value of faith
Set Free: Who or what are you tied to?
Songs and Hymns:
O For a Thousand Tongues to SingBe Still, My Soul
I Lift Up Mine EyesTake My Life and Let It Be Consecrated
Sermon Notes: I. No Middle Ground II. Which Ground Do You Stand On? III. Changing Your Footing
The Resurrection of The Christ: The Promise of a New Hope, a New Body, and a New Community
Songs and Hymns:
In Christ AloneChrist the Lord Is Risen Today
Worthy Is The Lamb (from Handel's Messiah)Crown Him with Many Crowns
King of GloryEaster Song
`The Strife Is O'er, the Battle Done
With Jesus in the School of Prayer: When heaven seems to be silent
Songs and Hymns:
Greet the DawningO Gracious Light, Lord Jesus Christ
Be Still and KnowWe Are God's People
World Missions Sunday: We don't "have" a missions department -- we are one!
Songs and Hymns: Antiphon In Christ There Is No East or West Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life Surely He Hath Borne Our Griefs Christ for the World! We Sing
Sermon Notes: The Covenant with Abram (Genesis 12:1-3) Abram as the Covenant conduit A pattern - "Blessed to be a blessing" Bel Air's Mission (Acts 1:8) Jesus' Pattern - Jerusalem to the world We don't "have" a missions department - we are one Our "Final Four" teams
Why Don't We Pray?: The major obstacles that keep us from lives of prayer.
Songs and Hymns:
Lift High the CrossLord, Listen to Your Children Praying
Sermon Notes: The Challenges to Prayer (Matthew 6:5-14) Misdirected audience Mistaken beliefs Misguided expectations The Call to Prayer (Luke 11:5-13) God has bread and we're hungry God's answers are greater than our requests
Ghosts, Demons, Angels and the Spiritual Realm: The biblical view concerning popular beliefs about the dead and the living
Songs and Hymns:
Immortal, Invisible, God Only WiseAnd Can It Be That I Should Gain?
Great Is Thy FaithfulnessLead On, O King Eternal
Sermon Notes: What Happens When We Die? The one-way direction of death (John 16:19-31) The chasm between "here" and "there". Who is Out There? The angelic realm (good and bad) Can the "dead" contact us? (I Samuel 28) The Great Peace for the Christian. What the "dead in Christ" are doing now. Keeping an eternal frame of reference.
Drinking, Smoking and Everyday Pleasures: Living the life of freedom in Christ
Songs and Hymns:
Great Is The LordArise, My Soul, Arise
My Jesus, I Love TheeBeneath the Cross of Jesus
I Will Sing of My RedeemerGod Be With You 'til We Meet Again
God's Goodness: Discovering God as Good When Everything Else Seems So Bad.
Songs and Hymns:
O Clap Your Hands Together All Ye PeopleO God, Our Help in Ages Past
Our Great SaviorCast Thy Burden Upon The Lord
`Good To Me
Sermon Notes:
When Life Seems UnfairWhen the Future Seems Uncertain
`When the Way Seems Unclear
Sexuality: The challenge of being human, sexual and spiritually holy.
Songs and Hymns: "Holy God, We Praise Your Name" "I Will Live My Life for Him" "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty" 'Here I Am to Worship' "The Lord Bless You and Keep You"
Sermon Notes: The Order of Creation The Order of The Fall The Order of Redemption Sexuality vs. Sex Sex is Covenant-Making Homosexuality Singleness
Interpreting the Bible: Learning how to have an intelligent, child-like faith.
Songs and Hymns: "God Is Our Salvation" "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise" "Children of the Heavenly Father" "All Creatures of Our God & King"
Sermon Notes: What kind of a book is the Bible? Is it an historical book? Is it a language book? Is it a book from an oral time?
The Hermeneutical Challenge SGSI (Structure, Genre, Setting, Intention) The Role of the Living Word- The Risen Lord Though one interpretation - Many applications The Spirit is removing pride in order to hear
The DaVidic Code: Stumbling over the plot behind all the obvious stuff.
Songs and Hymns:
Make A Joyful NoiseCome, Thou Almighty King
They Asked, Who's My NeighborTake My Life and Let It Be Consecrated
`Praise To The Lord, The Almighty
Called to Faithfulness: A Service of Worship and the Installation of The Reverend George L. Hinman as Associate Pastor of Discipleship by the Presbytery of the Pacific Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
The Essential Role of Prayer: God's releasing of power through the work of prayer. "Make A Joyful Noise" "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" "Awake, My Heart" "The Lord's Prayer" Spiritual Gifts and Prayer: Spiritual gifts without prayer are mere talents. I Peter 4:7-11 God's power performing God's will. Elijah's Power - Prayer within the Body (I Kings 17) We must rebuild our places of prayer. We must release our faith in prayer. We must remember the Father's love in prayer .
The Three Primary Colors of the Holy Spirit: The Spiritual Gift Dimensions of Service, Equipping, and Worship
How to See Things in the Right Way: "I Sing the Mighty Power of God" "Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above" "How Firm A Foundation"
The Beginning: God's promise of a new heaven and a new earth.
HYMNS & SONGS: "Christ Is Coming! Let Creation" "We Three Kings of Orient Are"
SERMON NOTES: The Beginning of the Life to Come
Revelation 20 -- The Judgment Chapters 21-22 -- The New Heaven and Earth A Biblical View of the Next Life What are the dead doing now? Are heaven and hell real? The great celebration and adventure forever
The Conclusion: Christ's Second Coming compared to His first.
HYMNS & SONGS: "Freedom Is Coming" "Angels We Have Heard on High "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" "He Is Born, the Divine Christ Child" "The First Noel, the Angel Did Say" "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" "Joy to the World" "Hallelujah! Chorus"
SERMON NOTES: The Seven Churches (1:9-3:22) The Seven Seals: God in History (4:1-8:1) The Seven Trumpets: The Church in Trials (8:2-11:18) The Wrath of the Nations with the Church's Salvation (11:15) The Seven Bowls of God's Wrath (15-18) The Final Destruction of Evil (19-20) The New Heaven and the New Earth
The Seven Churches: Christ's presence among His people.
HYMNS & SONGS: "Freedom Is Coming" "O Come, All Ye Faithful" "I Want Jesus" "O Holy Night" "Here's A Pretty Little Baby" "It Came upon the Midnight Clear"
SERMON NOTES: The New Testament's Apocalyptic Book Both symbolic and literal - but always authoritative Key to unlocking is the Old Testament The Four "Sevens" in Revelation The Seven Churches in Revelation Christ's presence among them Christ's commendations and condemnations How some look at the church today: Lecture Hall Drama Counseling Center Mission agency Christ's first and second comings
Hanukkah Message: What Hanukkah means for those who know Christ as the Messiah.
HYMNS & SONGS: "Dance and Sing, for the Lord Will Be With Us" "Angels from the Realms of Glory" "Lost In the Night" Once in Royal David's City"
SERMON NOTES: HANUKKAH- The miracle of light. The miracle of preservation. The miracle of Emmanuel (God with us).
Peter: Accepting the trials that purify our faith.
HYMNS & SONGS: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" "Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus"
SERMON NOTES: The Book of 1 Peter - The great hope for God's chosen people (1:1;2:10) A code of conduct for God's chosen people (2:11;4:19) Shepherding God's chosen people (5:1-14)
James: Getting over the walls that divide us.
HYMNS & SONGS: "Now Thank We All Our God" "Celebrate the King of Kings" "God Is Gone Up with a Merry Noise" "We Gather Together"
Trust Over Trying
HYMNS & SONGS:
Immortal, Invisible, God Only WiseWorthy To Be Praised!
`Great Is Thy Faithfulness
SERMON NOTES: The Book of Hebrews
The Superiority of Christ (1:1-10:18) Over the Angels Over Moses Over the Old Covenant Priesthood Over the Old Covenant The Superiority of Faith (10:19-13:25) In Strength for the Journey In Strength for Life's Sacrifices In Strength for Becoming God's People
Half-Full Hearts: When stuff gets in the way.
HYMNS & SONGS: "How Firm a Foundation" "Offertory" "Would I Have Answered When You Called?"
Three 'Secrets' of Christianity: Three keys to living the Christian life.
HYMNS & SONGS: "Jubilate Servite" (Come Rejoice in God) "Praise the Lord Who Reigns Above" "This Little Light of Mine" "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing" "Cry Holy" "We're Marching to Zion"
SERMON NOTES: 1. Belief 2. Obedience 3. Perseverence
The Pastoral Letters of Paul: God's concerns for our everyday lives.
HYMNS & SONGS: "Make a Joyful Noise" "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" "Te Deum" (Antonin Dvorak) "The Church's One Foundation"
The Gospel of Peace
HYMNS & SONGS: "Hear Our Praises" "Here I Am, Lord" "I Will Carry You" "Days of Elijah"
The Book of Acts: The ongoing mission and ministry of Jesus in the early Church by the Holy Spirit.
HYMNS & SONGS: "Only Trust Him" "I Lift Up Mine Eyes to the Hills" "Deep Love" (Michelle Tumes) "Healing Waters" (Michelle Tumes) "Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine"
The Resurrection: The redemption and power Christ brings to the world. (World Communion Sunday)
HYMNS & SONGS: "Siyahamba" "Give to Our God Immortal Praise" "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" "Camina, Pueblo de Dios" "Let Us Talents & Tongues Employ" "Let Us Break Bread Together" "Santo, Santo, Santo" "Heleluyan" "Crown Him with Many Crowns" "May the Lord, Mighty God"
SERMON NOTES: John's Gospel - The Resurrection Account : The Great Discovery The Empty Tomb (20:1-10) The Living Savior (20:11-18) The Transformed Disciples (20:19-31) A Further Account of The Risen Lord The Reality of the Resurrection (21: 1-14) The Universality of the Church (21: 15-24)
Good Lord!: Flippant Phrase or Covenant Cry?
HYMNS & SONGS:
Make a Joyful NoiseGreat Is Thy Faithfulness
Stand in the CongregationBe Thou My Vision
`Amazing Grace! How Sweet the Sound
SERMON NOTES: 1. The Immensity of God: 2. The Severity of God: 3. The Proximity of God:
Jesus' Passion: The crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Hymns & Songs:
Make a Joyful NoiseRejoice, Ye Pure In Heart
Camina, Pueblo de DiosMy Eternal King
When I Survey the Wondrous CrossLift High the Cross
Jesus' Teachings: The great "I AM" statements of Christ.
Hymns & Songs: "Make a Joyful Noise" "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise" "The Lord's My Shepherd, I'll Not Want" "With A Voice of Singing" "The Solid Rock"
Sermon notes: The Teachings of Jesus in John's Gospel
The Purpose of John was to "bear witness to the truth" Gnostic Heresy (heresy = truth out of balance) The Great Upper Room Discourse (John 13-17)
The Seven "I Am" Statements of Jesus Christ - "ego eimi" in Greek I Am the Bread of Life (chapter 6) I Am the Light of the World (chapter 8) I Am the Door (chapter 10) I Am the Good Shepherd (chapter 10) I Am the Resurrection and the Life (chapter 11) I Am the Way, the Truth, the Life (chapter 14) I Am the Vine (chapter 15)
Jesus' Miracles: Jesus' power to heal and transform.
Hymns & Songs: "Make a Joyful Noise" "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" "Amen" "Every Valley" "Songs of Thankfulness and Praise"
Sermon Notes: Outline of the Gospel of John- Jesus: the Word of God Revealed and in Flesh (1:1-2:11) The New Temple, New Birth, and New Worship (2:12-4:54) The Unbelief of Israel (5:1-6:71) Jesus the Shepherd from God, the Giver of Sight (7:21-10:21) Jesus the Giver of Eternal Life (10:22-12:50) The Upper Room Discourse (1-17) The Passion and Resurrection of Christ (18-21)
Death and the Divine Appointment: When Faith Meets Grace.
Hymns & Songs: "I will worship" "Saved" (Third Day) "Breathe" "Amazing Grace"
Luke's Gospel: The childhood of Jesus: His divine and human natures.
Hymns & Songs: "He Came Down" "Songs of Thankfulness and Praise" "Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow" "To God Be the Glory"
Sermon Notes: Outline of Luke's Gospel - The Preface and Infancy Narratives (1:1-2:52) The Ministry of John the Baptizer (3:1-20) The Beginning of Jesus' Ministry (3:21-4:13) Jesus in Galilee (4:14-9:50) From Galilee to Jerusalem (9:51-19:44) Jesus in Jerusalem (19:45-21:38) The Crucifixion and Resurrection (22:1-23:56 24:1-53)
Mark's Gospel: The baptism of Jesus and the power that followed.
Hymns & Songs: "All Creatures of Our God and King" "Let Us Break Bread Together" "Who is this King?" "Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine"
Sermon Notes: Outline of Mark - The Gospel of Power (The First Gospel?) The Preparation for the Coming One (1:1-13) The Early Galilean Ministry (1:14-3:6) The Call and Training of the Disciples (3:7-8:26) The Road to Jerusalem (8:27-10:52) The Jerusalem Ministry (11:1-13:37) The Passion Narrative and the Mission of the Risen Lord (14:1-16:8) Mark 14:51; Acts 15:36; II Timothy 4:11
Matthew's Gospel: Jesus' birth and family.
Hymns & Songs: "Fairest Lord Jesus" "Angels We Have Heard on High" "Go, Tell It on the Mountain"
Sermon Notes: The Gospel of the Jewish Messiah The Gospel of Discipleship The Five Great Teaching Sections Woven Around Jesus' Life The Rules of the Kingdom (5-7) The Requirements of the Leaders of the Kingdom (10) The Parables of the Kingdom (13) Greatness and Forgiveness in the Kingdom (18) The Coming of the King (24-25)
God's Search for Loving Honesty: Though we fail, God will restore and rescue His people.
Hymns & Songs: "For the Beauty of the Earth" "Take My Life and Let It Be Consecrated"
Sermon Notes: God (Yahweh) Loves Israel - His Chosen People 1:2-5 The People's Failure... In Stewardship of Their Spirit - The Priests' Polluted Sacrifices 1:6-2:9 In Stewardship of Their Hearts (Marriage) 2:10-16 In Stewardship of Their Minds (God is Not Just) 2:17-3:5 In Their Stewardship of Money 3:6-12 God Will Restore and Rescue By the Power of His Word Fulfilled 4:4 By the Sending of the "Promised One" 4:5-6
Bearing or Baring Secrets?: Biblical principles for knowing when to "bear" a secret and when to "bare" a secret.
Hymns & Songs: "Be Thou My Vision" "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty" "My Life is in Your Hands" "Shout to the Lord"
Sermon Notes: The Nature of Secrets Secrets give us previously hidden information Secrets give us power Secrets expose wrong doing (Luke 12:2-3)
When is it appropriate to bear a secret? When sharing it would diminish a surprise (Jeremiah 29:11; I Corinthians 2:7-10) When sharing it causes damage to others (James 3:5; Proverbs 11:12-13) When doing so enhances our relationship with God (Psalm 91:1-4; Judges 16:16-18)
When is it appropriate to bare a secret? When it could become destructive to our relationship with God (II Samuel 12:13; Psalm 51: 1,3, 10-12; Psalm 139: 23-2) When it helps to ease a burden (Galatians 6:2) When it is too good to be kept (I Corinthians 4:1)
The Proverbs: The principles that keep us from becoming the fool.
Hymns & Songs:
I Sing the Mighty Power of GodCan't Live A Day
`Christ for the World! We Sing
Sermon Notes: Proverbs for City Reaching
The Cry for Wisdom in the Proverbs The difference between a "promise" of God and God's "principles" The fool is the one who refuses to learn
Transforming Los Angeles into the greatest city for Christ Christ views the Church in the city as one It takes the whole church to reach the whole city The difference between evangelizing a city and congregationalizing it
The Five Principles of Relational Systems Systems create their own homeostasis When one group overfunctions another has to underfunction Becoming a "non-anxious presence" Learning to "stay in touch and define" Christ's power in His Church
Who, Me? A Charismatic?!: Misperceptions and misgivings about the person and work of the Holy Spirit.
Hymns & Songs:
All Hail the Power of Jesus' NameWhen I Need Him / Precious Lord
`Sweet, Sweet Spirit
Sermon Notes: Main Point:A proper understanding of and submission to the Holy Spirit will radically transform your life, this church, and our entire city.
The Psalms: The difference that knowing God's Word makes in life.
Hymns & Songs:
God of Our FathersAmerica, the Beautiful
God Bless AmericaBattle Hymn of the Republic
`How Blest Are They Who, Fearing God
The Church According to Starbucks: Biblical Characteristics of Christ's Church
Hymns & Songs:
Come, Thou Fount of Every BlessingAntiphonal Praise
`The Church's One Foundation?
Sermon Notes: Does Starbucks have something you don't? Lessons from the early church Devoted to the Apostles' teaching The church is a fellowship They participate in "the breaking of bread" They pray together Jesus' words in John's prologue He asks, "What are you looking for"? He answers, "Come and see!"
The Big Test: Meeting God in the midst of our trials.
Hymns & Songs:
Immortal, Invisible, God Only WiseIt Is Well with My Soul
Sermon Notes: Structure of This Marvelous Book Prologue (prose) chapter 1-2 Dialogue (poetry) chapters 3:1-42:6 Job and the Three Friends in Three Cycles (4-27) Single Speeches (Job, Elihu, God) Epilogue (prose) chapter 42:7-17 The Lessons of Job The Freedom of God The Testings of the Satan Justice and Retribution Strength for Suffering and God?s Redemption
EVENING SERVICE- Suffering in the Post Modern World: Understanding suffering is key to relating to Jesus and what He did on the cross.
Lessons on Rebuilding: God's faithfulness in helping us start over.
Hymns & Songs:
He Came DownHoly, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty
Lord, I Lift Your Name on HighEvery Time I Feel the Spirit
Te DeumThis Is My Father's World
For Such a Time: Standing for the Lord in whatever time and place God has ordained.
Hymns & Songs:
Praise to the Lord, the AlmightyThy Word
Glorify the Lord With MeThe Solid Rock
Sermon Notes: The Structure of the Scroll of Esther The characters and plot (1:1-3:15) Mordecai enlists the orphan Queen Esther to help (4:1-5:8) A twist in the plan for resolution (6:1-7:10) The full resolution (8:1-9:19) A command to observe Purim (lots or dice) forever (9:29-10) Lessons from Esther God is a God of Deliverance in History Esther?s Respect God is a God of Celebration
When to Hold on and When to Let Go: Learning from Israel's exile, the secret of attaching and letting go.
Hymns & Songs:
Joyful, Joyful, We Adore TheeLauda Anima? (Praise, My Soul, The King of Heaven)
Because of Whose I AmBlessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine
Sermon Notes: The Exile of Judah to Babylon (586 BCE) The enslavement in Egypt was the evil intentions of human beings, but God's sovereign goodness liberated. The enslavement in Babylon was the people's failures, but, again, God"s sovereign purposes redeems them. Israel's Spiritual Journey and Ours Life is a series of "attachments" and "losses." Learning to "let go" of that which is passing. - Responding to God"s closing chapters. - Refusing to idolize anything.
Learning to "hold on to" that which is permanent. - The same God, the same Promises, the same Presence. - Sometimes the "right dream" but the "wrong boat."
The Gift of Faith for the Journey
But They're So Different From Me: The freedom of obedience in loving people different than us. (World Missions Sunday)
Hymns & Songs:
Wa Wa Wa Emimimo? (Come, O Holy Spirit, Come)Let the Whole Creation Cry
Ain'a That Good NewsLord, You Give the Great Commission
Sermon Notes: Jonah's Response to God's Call Jonah's disobedience 1:1-16 God's grace to Jonah 1:17-2:10 Nineveh's Response to God's Call Pagan sinners saved 3:1-9 Jonah's complaint against God 3:10-4:11 God's grace and our call Jesus' law of life transforming (evangelism)
- "One sows, another reaps"
- "One goes, another sends"
A Mother's Epic: One family's drama touched by the prophet Elisha.
Hymns & Songs:
Praise to the Lord, the AlmightyI Lift Up Mine Eyes
Sermon Notes: The Shunammite Woman's Generous Spirit She was a mother to Elisha before she was a mother to her son The Lord Created a Void in Her Life That Only He Could Fill The miraculous provision of oil The miraculous provision of a son The miraculous raising of her son The giving of God's Son for our sake
Transformed People Transforming Communities: The process of changing our own lives by caring for others.
Hymns & Songs:
All Creatures of Our God and KingSavior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us
My Jesus I Love TheeBlest Be The Tie That Binds
[ The Rev. Robert Gelinas, our guest preacher, is the Senior Pastor of Colorado Community Church in Denver.]
How Far Will God Go?: Why does God take us back even when we've been unfaithful to Him and others?
Hymns & Songs:
Alleluia, Sing to JesusIn Thee is Gladness
`Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Sermon Notes: A Faithful God to an Unfaithful People (Chapters 1-3) The setting of Hosea's ministry (750 BC) Hosea and his tragic marriage to Gomer The children of a broken covenant
Hosea's Spiritual Message (Chapters 4-14) The effects of a lack of knowledge of God The futility of mere religion God's changeless compassion
The Lessons of Jesus' Resurrection: What we can learn about our new life in Christ from Jesus' resurrection.
Hymns & Songs:
Christ the Lord Is Risen TodayLord of the Dance
Jesus Loves MeJesus Loves the Little Children
At the Name of Jesus (Rene Clausen)The Love of God
`Sing with All the Saints in Glory
Sermon Notes: The Resurrection's Lessons on Our New Life in Christ- The New Life is Physical Jesus' new body was a 'spiritual / physical body' The Incarnation - "God With Us" The New Life is Relational Jesus' relationships were taken to a new level The Crucifixion - "God For Us" The New Life is Eternal The 'death of death' was accomplished Easter morning The Resurrection - "God In Us"
Parable of the Unforgiving Servant: The power of forgiveness in everyday life.
Hymns & Songs:
Hosanna, Loud HosannaThe Easter Song (Anne Herring)
Were You ThereWhen I Survey the Wondrous Cross
Who Is This King of Glory? (William Mathias)Lead On, O King Eternal
Sermon Notes: Jesus' Triumphal Entry was Pivotal for Our Forgiveness The conquering power of humbleness The parable of "grace gone sour" We Must Forgive to Redeem Our Past Justice is where offenders pay for their sin Forgiveness is where the offended willingly pays for the sin We Must Forgive to Embrace Our Future The only way to win the final freedom is to forgive We Must Forgive to Liberate Our Present The triumphal ride into Jerusalem becomes the procession to the cross
Christ's Return: What happens to the Church in the last act? When does Christ return for His bride?
Hymns & Songs:
Soon and Very SoonThe Solid Rock
`I'll Fly Away
Sermon Notes: What happens to the church in the last act? The church goes through a time of testing and purifying through trials. (I Peter 1:6-9, Matthew 24:15-28, Revelation 13:7-10, etc.) The church is victorious in conquering through sacrificial faith. (Revelation 7:13-17) When does Christ return for His bride? Some Old Testament Imagery for the Kingdom Coming: Daniel 7 'Four Beasts (Babylonian, Medes, Greece, Rome') Daniel's 70 Weeks (9:24) Ezekiel's Gog and Magog of 38 Some New Testament Imagery for Jesus' Return: The Parousia or 'going out to meet' the coming King. (I Thessalonians 4:13) The 'thief in the night' (Matthew 24:32-44) The 'blessed hope' (Titus 2:11-14) The 'appearing' (I John 2:28) Since we cannot know the chronological time, can we know the sequential time? Is it before the millennium, or after, or is there even an actual 1,000 period? (Revelation 20) What about the 'great tribulation'? Do we get taken before it (Pretribulation), in the middle, or after' Is Revelation 3:10 'the keeping' (tereo ek) keeping 'through' or from' - John 17:15 is tereo ek and seems to mean 'through' trials What does it mean to us? Keep encouraged and confident in God's Sovereignty. God's in control! Keep pure and filled with the fruit of the Spirit as we prepare for that Day. Keep at the task at hand. Love those around and 'dance until dawn!'
Parable of the Banquet: How do we share our faith with unbelieving friends and family?
Hymns & Songs:
I Will Greatly RejoiceLift High the Cross
LiquidJesus Shall Reign
Sermon Notes: Jesus' perspective of the Kingdom: 'Now a King gave a banquet...' Many are called, a few are chosen. Why Some People Refuse the Invitation Good things that got in the way of the best. It's a question of the heart, not the event. The mystery of the 'call.' Why God Refuses Some People No one comes on their own worthiness. The dignity God gives of letting people choose to refuse. Loving Those Closest to Us Our job is simply to invite. It's up to them and God how they respond. The three start-up questions for the invitation Do you have spiritual beliefs? What do you think of the person of Jesus? Would you want to know if you were wrong?
Parable of the Mustard Seed: The power of small faith to transform.
Hymns & Songs:
How Great Thou ArtMy God Is So High (Moses Hogan)
`This Is My Father's World
The Churches: Lessons from the Seven Churches of Revelation
Sermon Notes: Quick Overview: Theories: To 7 Specific Churches To 7 Ages of the Church To Every Church Life phase of a congregation Something for all Structure of the 7 Letters: 1. Address 2. Titles of Jesus (from Ch. 1:12-20) 3. Commendation 4. Rebuke 5. Counsel 6. Promise Overview: To 3 both commendation & rebuke To 2 only commendation To 2 only rebuke
Ephesus: (Apostolic Church) Commendation- Patient Endurance Cannot tolerate evil nor falsehood Enduring patiently Rebuke- Abandoned first love Counsel- Remember Repent Do the works you did at first
Smyrna: (Persecuted Church: Diocletian to Constantine) Commendation- Affliction & poverty Slandered Rebuke- None! Counsel- Do not fear Beware the devil Be faithful until death
Pergamum: (Church under Imperial favor: Constantine) Commendation- Holding fast to My name Did not deny faith in Me Rebuke- Some hold to false teaching: Fornication/sexual sin Idolatry Counsel- Repent!
Thyatira: (Papal Church: Dark Ages) Commendation- Love, faith, service & patient endurance Last works greater than first Rebuke- You tolerate Jezebel: Fornication Idolatry Spiritual Adultery Counsel- Repent Hold fast to what you have until I come
Sardis: (Reformation Church: 16th & 17th Centuries) Commendation- None! Rebuke- A name of being alive But you're Dead! Counsel- Wake Up! Strengthen what remains & is about to die Remember what you've received & heard Obey it! Repent
Philadelphia: (Missionary Church: Puritan Movement) Commendation- Kept My word & not denied My name Patient endurance Rebuke- None! Counsel- Hold fast to what you have
Laodicea: (Rejected Church: The final apostasy) Commendation- None! Rebuke- Neither cold or hot Lukewarm! Spiritual Arrogance My Own Story Counsel- Let God Prosper, clothe & heal you Be earnest Repent Listen & let Christ in
Lessons from the Seven Churches: 1. God Consistently Honors- Endurance / patience / perseverance Affliction borne for His Names' sake Demonstration of Love 7 Service Growth 2. God Consistently Rebukes- Falling Back Sexual sin Idolatry Lifeless faith Spiritual arrogance 3. God Consistently Offers the Path Back- Repent Remember Return Obey Hold on Fear not
Parable of the Weeds: Why does God allow evil to exist and how should we respond?
Hymns & Songs:
Come, Thou Fount of Every BlessingJesus' Hands were Kind Hands
Christus ParadoxThere Is a Balm in Gilead
`Spirit of the Living God
Issues of War & Peace: As Christians and as Christ's church, what position should we take regarding war versus peace?
Sermon Notes: Perspectives on War and Morality
Crusade Cost-Benefit Analysis Pacifism Just War Theory Going-to-war considerations legitimate authority just cause right intention/motives proportionality likelihood of success Conducting warfare proportionality non-combatant immunity
Additional theological considerations
Global church Nature of patriotism/nationalism Impact on missions/evangelism
Why evangelicals don't speak out much against war policies
Scepticism about "official" church pronouncements Dissatisfaction with selective use of biblical passages Presumption of "subjection" to authority (Romans 13) America and "chosen nation" thinking Individualizing of authority
Spiritual issues
John Calvin's warning: Rules for "competing pray-ers" Keep praying about what matters to you. Focus on underlying issues. Pray for those whom you consider to be your enemies. Acknowledge that you may be wrong in the way you view things. (Psalm 139: 23-24).
The Award that Belongs in the Desk: Humility and Pride
Hymns & Songs:
We Gather TogetherThis Is My Song
Eternal Father, Strong to SaveLet There Be Peace on Earth
Christ: Understanding Jesus Christ as the central figure in the Book of Revelation.
Sermon Notes: A New Perspective (v. 16) Illustration (The blind man and the elephant) Everything is spiritual-you use your vision to see others as God sees them
A New Person (v. 17) A new creature- like a snake becoming an eagle In Christ- nothing remains the same
A New Purpose (v. 18) All things are of God- no longer living for self A heavenly calling
A New Power (v. 19) The word of reconciliation (Jeremiah 23:29; Romans 1:16; Hebrews 4:12)
A New Position (v. 20-21) As Christ died on the cross in our stead So we take the gospel to others in His stead An ambassador Conclusion- Are you walking in newness of life? How do you see others? Are you a new creature in Christ? Do you trust God to strengthen you? Are you walking worthy of your vocation? "Even so we should walk in newness of life."
Parable of the Soils: If Jesus is who He claims, why doesn't everyone believe?
Hymns & Songs:
Throughout These Lenten Days and NightsO Sing a Song of Bethlehem
Fairest Lord JesusLord of the Dance
When the Honeymoon is Over
Hymns & Songs:
Joyful, Joyful We Adore TheeLauda Anima (Praise My Soul the King of Heaven)
For the Beauty of the EarthJoy to the World
Sermon Notes: What It Is: What It Is Not: How to Get It: How to Lose It: How to Get It Back:
What are the 'Last Days' and Who are the Main Players?: What are the prevalent perspectives on how the world will end?
Hymns & Songs:
Lord, Who ThroughoutI Will Sing of My Redeemer
Jesus, Remember MeCreate In Me A Clean Heart
`O Calvary's Lamb
Sermon Notes: The Study of Eschatology (Last Things)
Every religion has eschatology - how does it all end?
Eastern (Hindu and Bhuddist) Nirvana is the goal through differing worlds of destruction and recreation to get there. Judaism - Daniel's prophecies and the Coming Messiah. Zionist debate: Do we build Israel or is that Messiah's call? Islam - Allah and the great judgement (Jesus - one of the prophets returns, but as a Muslim: Jesus is revered but never worshipped)
Christendom's Primary Colors of the Last Days (Think Impressionist's Painting - Broad colors and strokes)
The Biblical Divisions
This Age The Age to Come
The Church Trying to Piece the Biblical Puzzle Together
Technically, the "last days" began at Pentecost. (Acts 2) But what about the "last scene" of world history.
Preterist - The teaching that all prophecy is fulfilled (i.e. previous) and that "this age" is slowly becoming "the age to come".
Postmillenial - The teaching that Christ returns after the church has triumphantly ushered in the Kingdom. The "Christianizing" of the world.
Premillenialism - The teaching that Christ returns to usher in a literal 1,000 year reign on earth. Before that is the intensifying of the evils of "this age."
Historic Amillenialism - The teaching that there is no literal 1,000 year reign, but that Christ returns to an evil world, then Christ ushers in the Kingdom.
Dispensationalism - The teaching that there are seven "dispensations" or "eras" that make up history. There was the dispensation of Israel - now we are in the "church dispensation." Christ will "rapture the church" away, Israel will be used again, and Christ will return and set up a literal 1,000-year reign before the eternal state.
Matthew 24 - What were Jesus and His Disciples Talking About?
The obvious question - when is the "age to come" going to kick off? (Remember that this is post Palm Sunday.)
The coming destruction of the Temple. (Titus in 70 AD) It's not as simple as the disciples thought it was going to be. If the Messiah ushers in the Kingdom, where is it?!
Kingdom Theology (Cullman, Ladd. etc.) - Israel was the vehicle for the kingdom of God. The church is now the vehicle. The Kingdom is present in a "mystery form" right now.
Fulfillment without consummation A splinter of the future has invaded the present in the mission and Person of Jesus the Christ. Christ will return and establish God's final Rule and Reign.
Jesus' admonition
No fear - God is firmly in control. (It'll get rough- but its okay) No hate - Most people's love will grow cold. No despair - There is glory and joy headed your way, if....we are in Him.
Hezekiah's Deal with God: It's not 'when will we die?' but 'when will we ever start to live?'
Hymns & Songs:
Guide Me, O Thou Great JehovahSanctus
`Amazing Grace
Sermon Notes: 1) King Hezekiah - A Good King whom God Used a. More about Hezekiah than any king since Solomon. b. Wrote a bright chapter in a gloomy story. 2) King Hezekiah faces the ultimate test - Death a. When bad things happen to good people, or when good things happen to bad people. Who told us it should be different? b. How long are the days that are written for us? (Psalm 139:16) 3) Hezekiah's Request a. The stunning result and the power of prayer. b. The disappointing years that were given. - Babylon and Manasseh. c. Can we talk God into second best? d. It's not "when will we die?" - but "when will we ever start to live?"
Ahab, Jezebel & Elijah: The influence of leadership for good or evil.
Hymns & Songs:
Rejoice, Ye Pure in HeartPraise His Holy Name
You Satisfy the Hungry HeartThe Lord's Prayer
What I Did for Love: The cost of love -- for Jesus and for others.
Hymns & Songs:
Be Joyful in the LordLove Divine, All Loves Excelling
The Gift of LoveJesus Loves Me, This I Know
`Great is Thy Faithfulness
Jeroboam's Sin: Listening to the Lord rather than our critics or the crowd.
Hymns & Songs:
Praise, Praise, Praise the LordPraise to the Lord, the Almighty
He Watching Over IsraelJust a Closer Walk with Thee
Solomon's Glory: The Great Wisdom of a Humble Heart; The Foolishness of a Compromising Heart
Hymns & Songs:
Holy God, We Praise Your NameBe Thou My Vision
`Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
The Rise and Fall and Rise of David: The power of God to restore and renew.
Hymns & Songs:
All People That On Earth Do DwellWe Three Kings
O Worship the KingO How Amiable
Be Thou My VisionThere's a Song in the Air
A New Beginning: Hearing the Good News of Jesus Christ in 2003.
HYMNS & SONGS:
As with Gladness Men of OldThere is a Savior
`What Child is This?
Wonder: Learning to wonder again at the gift of life.
HYMNS & SONGS:
O Come, All Ye FaithfulHark! The Herald Angles Sing
What Child is This?Away in a Manger
O Holy NightIn the Bleak Midwinter
`Silent Night
Joy: The greatest feeling any of us ever experience.
HYMNS & SONGS:
E'en So Lord Jesus, Quickly ComeThe Joy of Christmas
Joy To The WorldThe Little Drummer Boy
`Hallelujah! (Handel's Messiah)
Sadness & Discouragement: The power of Christ's coming to heal our broken hearts.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Christ is Coming, Prepare the WayO Come, All Ye Faithful
BetelehemuAngels We Have Heard on High
Fear: Turning our fears over to the Christ who came and is returning.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Christ is Coming, Prepare the WayO Come, Little Children
Wasn't That a Mighty DayAngels from the Realms of Glory
Carol FantasiaO Little Town of Bethlehem
Anger: Learning to yield our feelings -- like anger -- to Christ for healing.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Christ is Coming, Prepare the WayGettin' Ready for the Miracle
Carol of the BellsO Come, O Come, Emmanuel
If God Hit You With a 2x4, Would You Know What Hit You?: Being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Now Thank We All Our GodAt the Cross
I Believe in a Hill Called Mount CalvaryCome, Thou Found of Every Blessing
The Life of David: Giving to the Lord Our Best - David's Trust IN the Lord and his Sacrifice TO the Lord.
HYMNS & SONGS:
All Hail the Power of Jesus' NameJoyful, Joyful We Adore Thee
O Magnify the LordThe Solid Rock
Lead Me LordGreat is Thy Faithfulness
The Life of David: A Man After God's Own Heart - Learning to trust God in forgiving those who have wronged us.
HYMNS & SONGS:
All Hail the Power of Jesus' NameAll Creatures of Our God and King
Ubi Caritas et AmorCome, Share the Lord
StillAll Things Are Yours
The Life of Saul: Israel's Tragic First King - Four ways to know if we're on the Saul slide to self destruction.
HYMNS & SONGS:
All Hail the Power of Jesus' NameI Will Give Thanks
We Gather TogetherPraise God!
`Great is the Lord
The Life of Samuel: Having Prayers that Work - Prayers that work.
HYMNS & SONGS:
All Hail the Power of Jesus' NameA Mighty Fortress Is Our God
The Lord Is My ShepherdWe Praise You, O God, Our Redeemer
The Book of Ruth: The Grand Lessons of an ordinary woman living an extraordinary life.
HYMNS & SONGS:
All Hail the PowerPraise to the Lord, the Almighty
The Majesty and Glory of Your NameTake My Life and Let It Be Consecrated
How to Share Your Faith...Without an Argument - Understanding Simple Evangelism.
ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE: Romans 6:23, 10:9
Do You Believe in Miracles?
HYMNS & SONGS:
I Will Be the OneHow Great Thou Art
He Never Failed Me YetBow the Knee
`Give God the Glory
Pushing Out the Edges
HYMNS & SONGS:
AsheSi tu puedes, cantalo
Jesus Lifted MePraise, Praise, Praise the Lord
De los Cuatro Rincones del MundoShine Your Light
Samson's Secret of Failing Through Winning: The warning of giving credit to ourselves rather than the Lord after success.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Let All Things Now LivingGive Thanks With a Grateful Heart
In That Great Gettin' Up Mornin'He's Got the Whole World
Gideon's Secret: Making sure only those who are called are in the right place.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Let All Things Now LivingI Sing the Mighty Power of God
If Thou But Suffer God to Guide TheeBind Us Together
Sounding the Trumpet: Preparing Our Spiritual Tribes for the Mission - Plugging into the life of the church through Affinity Groups.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Let All Things Now LivingGuide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah
Sing Praise to GodGod of Our Fathers
`We Are Called to be God's People
The Book of Joshua: Our Land to Occupy - Our strategy for entering, occupying, and dividing the spiritual wilderness that is Los Angeles.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Let All Things Now LivingAll Hail the Power
Awake My HeartO Christians Haste
The Maturing Stage: The Years of the Storms
HYMNS & SONGS:
Praise to the Lord, the AlmightyO Sacred Head Now Wounded
`Trust and Obey
The Building Stage: Growing Pains - Childhood through Adolescence
HYMNS & SONGS:
All Hail the Power of Jesus' NameWe Worship Thee
Eternal LifeBe Thou My Vision
Dance Lessons: Joy in our Relationship with God
HYMNS & SONGS:
Joyful, Joyful, We Adore TheeThe Lord's Prayer
`Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart
ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE: John 15:4,11 Luke 24:32 Acts 4:12-13 James 1:2-4 Philippians 1:12-26 Nehemiah 8:10
Our Families: The Beginning Stage - Cultivating healthy relationships within our own family.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Alleluia, Sing to JesusI Wonder As I Wander
Were You There?The Lord's Prayer
Jesus' Favorite Book: Deuteronomy? The Second Telling of the Law
HYMNS & SONGS:
Come, Thou Fount of Every BlessingIf With All Your Hearts
`Tell Me the Story of Jesus
Life's Journey: The Book of Numbers, A Tragic Chapter.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Come, Let Us Praise the LordYou'll Never Walk Alone
`He Lives
Brand New: Hope for messed up people...just like us!
HYMNS & SONGS:
The Church's One FoundationHear Me, Redeemer
`O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing
Marriage & Divorce: What's Clear/Not So Clear in the Bible about Marriage and Divorce.
HYMNS & SONGS:
When Morning Gilds the SkiesKyrie Eleison
Love Divine, All Loves ExcellingChrist Became Obedient
Taking a Life: Rules for living together in healthy relationships.
HYMNS & SONGS:
America, the BeautifulOh Clap Your Hands
`Take My LIfe and Let It Be Consecrated
Entertainment & The Arts: Honoring God with our time, talents, and creativity.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Immortal, Invisible, God Only WiseLord of the Dance
Pilgrims' HymnTeach Me Thy Way, O Lord
Sexuality: God's gift of sexuality.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Joyful, Joyful, We Adore TheeCome Down, Lord
`God of Grace and God of Glory
What the Father Wants: God wants from us that which only He can do in us.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Sing Praise to God Who Reigns AboveShout to the Lord
`My Jesus, I Love Thee
Ten Responses to Love: The Horizontal: Flowing from the VERTICAL (the first four commandments) into the six HORIZONTAL responses to love.
HYMNS & SONGS:
I Sing the Mighty Power of GodGrace
Modern Day Moses (K. Payne)They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love
Ten Responses to Love -- The Vertical: The response to God's love and grace in our lives.
HYMNS & SONGS:
America the BeautifulO Worship the King
TapsHoly, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty
The Central Event of the Old Testament: God's use of pain to redeem His people.
HYMNS & SONGS:
The Church's One FoundationIf Ye Love Me (T. Tallis)
Festival Piece on Saint Anne (Eugene Butler)Spirit of the Living God
Enough!
*Mother's Day
HYMNS & SONGS:
Come, Christians, Join to SingLord, Bless My Mother
Little Boy on His KneesLet Us Break Bread Together
`The Lord's Prayer
The Afterglow of God
HYMNS & SONGS:
Let the Whole Creation CryLord Make Me Thine Instrument
Thuma MinaWe've a Story to Tell to the Nations
The Call of Moses: The call of God on our lives to our destinies.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Give to Our God Immortal PraiseLet This Mind Be in You
`Come, All Christians, Be Committed
Why Read the Bible?: Three reasons to read God's word EVERY day.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Worship the LordRejoice, Ye Pure in Heart
Ascribe to the LordSavior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us
`I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord
Patterns of Worship: The UPWARD Look, The INWARD Look, The OUTWARD Look.
HYMNS & SONGS:
All People of GodO Worship the King
To Thee We SingI See the Lord
Search MeSolid Rock
`The Church's One Foundation
A Case of Mistaken Identity: Christ comes at unlikely times, in unlikely forms, to unlikely sources.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Alleluia, Alleluia! Hearts to HeavenOh Sons and Daughters
`Take My Life and Let It Be
The First Resurrection: The celebration of all events, and the living proof of our future assurance over death.
HYMNS & SONGS:
RedeemerChrist the Lord is Risen Today
This is a Day of RejoicingAbove All
Amazing GraceWere You There?
`He is Lord/Shout to the Lord
The Execution: The terrible price Love paid for our benefit.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Lord I Lift Your Name on HighHosanna, Loud Hosanna
The Holy CityWhen I Survey the Wondrous Cross
The Civic Trials: The challenge to engage and transform this world while just passing through it.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Come, Christians, Join to SingLet Everything
We Adore TheeIt is Well with My Soul
The Ecclesiastical Trials: Learning from Jesus the ability to confront and heal the hypocrisy and wounds within the church.
HYMNS & SONGS:
O Worship the KingWhere Two or Three are Gathered
Forever Will I Praise TheeThe Old Rugged Cross
The Arrrest: Injustice- when to resist and when to accept
HYMNS & SONGS:
O Worship the KingWhere Two or Three are Gathered (J. Purifoy)
Forever Will I Praise Thee (J. Sanborn)The Old Rugged Cross
Legislating Morality: Can we expect government to fix what's wrong with America?
HYMNS & SONGS:
All Hail the Power of Jesus' NameBe Thou My Vision
The Betrayal: When betrayed...pray for LIFE, pray for CONVICTION, pray for PEACE.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Joyful, Joyful We Adore TheeKyrie Eleison (L. Vierne)
Pie Jesu (A.L. Webber)Beneath the Cross of Jesus
Joseph: God's Sovereignty and Our Freedom
HYMNS & SONGS:
I Sing the Mighty Power of GodAll Glory Be to God on High
Come Thou Fount of Every BlessingWhat a Friend We Have in Jesus
`The Solid Rock
Jacob: Wrestling with God.
HYMNS & SONGS:
O Worship the KingGreat is the Lord of Heaven (J. Haydn)
`Great is Thy Faithfulness
Abraham: Faith is found in the act of obedience.
HYMNS & SONGS: "Come, We That Love the Lord" "I Sing the Greatness of Our God" "Offertory" (Beck) "Trust and Obey"
When Doubt Goes Off the Charts
HYMNS & SONGS:
Immortal, Invisible, God Only WisePraise God in His Holiness
Be Still and Know (McCormick)It is Well with My Soul
Noah: Righteousness by Faith
HYMNS & SONGS: Holy God, We Praise Your Name Holy is the Lord Leaning on the Everlasting Arms
Creation: God creates something from nothing. God's creation has order and days. God's rest is an active rest.
HYMNS & SONGS: Sing Praise to the Father Panis Angelicus (Franck) How Great Thou Art
Expect God: What God has in store for His church.
HYMNS & SONGS:
As With Gladness Me of OldWere You There on that Christmas Night? (Sleeth)
`Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above
The Characters of Christmas: The Angels - A closer look at the Angels at Advent and the role of angels in our lives today.
HYMNS & SONGS:
O Come, All Ye FaithfulLittle Drummer Boy
Joy to the World/Shout to the LordSilent Night
Away in a MangerYou Are My King
`Child of God
The Characters of Christmas: Mary - Lessons and Carols: A closer look at the Blessed Virgin Mary and the lessons we can learn from her example.
HYMNS & SONGS:
O Come, O Come Emmanuel (Christiansen)O Come, All Ye Faithful (Wade/Willcocks)
O Jesus, Grant Me Hope and Comfort (Franck/Stein)Comfort, Comfort (Ferguson)
Jesus Christ the Apple Tree (Poston)Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (Mendelssohn/Willcocks)
Away in a Manger (Kirkpatric/Helvey)Magnificat (Stanford)
Sir Christemas (Mathias)Hallelujah Chorus (Handel)
ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE: Micah 5:204 Luke 1:26-35; 38 Matthew 1:18-25 John 1:1-14
Herod: God's foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God's weakness is stronger than human strength.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Angels We Have Heard on HighJoy to the World
Still, Still, StillO Holy Night
`O Little Town of Bethlehem
The Shepherds: When the angels announced Christ's birth to the humble shepherds, they didn't just receive the message, they responded to it!
HYMNS & SONGS:
Angels We Have Heard on HighThe Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy
Climb to the Top of the Highest MountainThou Didst Leave Thy Throne
Joseph: A look at the Christmas story through the eyes of Jesus' earthly father.
HYMNS & SONGS:
O Come, All Ye FaithfulRejoice (Fettke)
E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come (Manz)O Come, O Come Emmanuel
`The Lord's Prayer
Let's Make One Thing Perfectly Clear: Salvation comes though Christ alone.
HYMNS & SONGS:
Blessed AssurancePraise God! (Bock)
`Christ the Solid Rock
The Power of Praise: God's Three Streams of Emotional Healing
HYMNS & SONGS:
We Gather TogetherO Praise the Lord All Ye Nations
How Great Thou ArtNow Thank We All Our God
How We Use It: Part 2 of a 2-part look into a biblical perspective on wealth.
HYMNS & SONGS:
I Sing the Mighty Power of GodIt All Belongs to You
`Great is Thy Faithfulness
How We Create It: Part 1 in a 2-part series that takes a biblical look into the use and abuse of wealth.
HYMNS & SONGS:
When Morning Gilds the SkiesO Sing Unto the Lord (Vivaldi)
Gloria PatriOffertory (Beck)
`We Give Thee but Thine Own
God's Love for His Church: Reformation Sunday
HYMNS & SONGS:
A Mighty Fortress Is Our GodCelebration of Light
Near to the Heart of GodGloria Patri
All Hail the Power of Jesus NameI Love Thy Kingdom, Lord
God's Love for His City - Mission Awareness Week: Urban Mission Sunday.
HYMNS & SONGS:
I Will Rise UpTell the World
My Help Cometh from the LordRight Now is the Right Time