Grace 242: Recent Episodes
Grace 242
We don't go to church, we are the church. Listen in on a church plant striving to be the church who make disciples of Jesus.
Title: How to Wrestle with God
Scripture Reading: Genesis 32:22-32
Series: Bizarre Bible
Do you find yourself constantly scheming your way through life's challenges? Jacob, a lifelong schemer, finds himself in a mysterious all-night wrestling match in Genesis 32. This encounter becomes an enacted metaphor for his life, forcing him to move from wrestling by scheming to wrestling by trusting God. Ultimately, Jacob surrenders his self-reliance, foreshadowing the ultimate surrender of our Savior, Jesus, in Gethsemane. Choose to wrestle with life's difficulties by surrendering and trusting in God's power, rather than relying on your own schemes.
Title: Breaking the Cyclical Curse
Scripture Reading: Genesis 9:20-29 ESV
Series: Bizarre Bible
What if the bizarre story of Noah and Ham isn't just about nakedness, but a deeper, cyclical sin? This sermon challenges the common interpretation of Noah and Ham's story, through 4 Cs: the Crime, the Curse, the Cycle, and the Cure. Just like Ham, we carry the same cyclical sin in our heart today. How do we break that curse? Look to the only one who can cure the cycle, Jesus.
Title: BEARing the Burden of Baldness
Scripture Reading: II Kings 2:23-25
Series: Bizarre Bible
Taylor Englund joins Pastor Bill to discuss if Elisha overreacted by cursing 42 boys for mocking his baldness, or if there is a deeper, cosmic meaning behind this bizarre Bible story. This episode unpacks the strange narrative of Elisha and the two bears, revealing it's more than a prophet's overreaction. It explores 4 "P"s: the "place" of Bethel, a center of idolatry, and Elisha as the "prophet," a new Joshua leading a spiritual conquest. The "perpetrators" were young adults challenging God's authority, leading to a divine "punishment" that validated Elisha's role in reclaiming God’s cosmic territory through spiritual warfare. As members of God's royal family, we are called to continue Jesus' cosmic mission, revealing His victory and reclaiming spiritual territory by spreading the good news of His Kingdom.
Title: Bizarre Brides and Bad Beings (Part 2)
Scripture Reading: Genesis 6:1-4
Series: Bizarre Bible
This is part 2 of a message on Genesis 6:1-4, where we continue exploring the W.E.I.R.D. aspects of spiritual beings and humanity. Today we cover Warped Wife-Wooing (spiritual beings mating with humans) and Earth's Expiration (the flood as a consequence of both human and spiritual sin). It unveils the Inhuman Invaders (Nephilim) as offspring, emphasizes the Reality of the Realms (unseen spiritual warfare), and ultimately points to Defeated Demons through Jesus's sovereignty. Embrace the reality of spiritual warfare, find comfort in God's persistent grace, and remember that Jesus has already secured victory over all spiritual oppression.
Title: Bizarre Brides and Bad Beings (Part 1)
Scripture Reading: Genesis 6:1-4
Series: Bizarre Bible
We're exploring perhaps the weirdest passage in the entire Bible through the acronym W.E.I.R.D. The "W" stands for 'Warped Wife-Wooing' where nefarious spiritual beings, referred to as 'the sons of God,' took human women as wives. This act is presented as a great sin and a fall of spiritual beings, paralleling humanity's fall in Genesis 3. The message highlights how both falls involve 'looking and taking,' revealing the expressway-sized connection between our eyes and heart, where envy leads to lust and actions outside of God's will. To combat the anxiety, envy, and unhappiness that arise from covetousness, discipline your eyes and set your mind’s eye on Jesus, who alone brings true joy and contentment.
Title: Is He Spiderman or is He Spiderman?
Scripture Reading: Judges 6:11-24
Series: Bizarre Bible
Today we welcome Taylor Englund for podcast-style message. Taylor and Pastor Bill delve into Gideon's perplexing encounter with the Angel of the LORD, revealing how the Angel of the LORD is often a pre-incarnate manifestation of God the Son. It demonstrates that the concept of the Trinity, or Godhead, is deeply rooted in Old Testament scripture. Embrace the thoroughly biblical truth of the Trinity, understanding that God, in His complex and powerful nature, uses the weak to display His glory and deserves our exclusive worship.
Title: Are You Someone God Will Use?
Scripture Reading: Exodus 4:24-26
Series: Bizarre Bible
Are you someone God will use to accomplish His mission? This message delves into the bizarre biblical account of Moses’s encounter with God, exploring Moses's Compromise and reluctance to fully embrace his calling. Discover Zipporah's Urgency as she acts decisively to save Moses's life through a proxy circumcision, demonstrating her faith. Finally, uncover God's Tolerance and graciousness in sparing Moses, ultimately showing that God seeks obedient, repentant hearts for His mission. Embrace a circumcised heart of obedience and repentance, allowing God to cut away sin so you can be a willing and effective vessel for His work.
Title: How Fishy Funds Form Faith
Scripture Reading: Matthew 17:24-27 ESV
Series: Bizarre Bible
What does a fish's mouth have to do with your finances and faith? This sermon explores Jesusy generosity through the bizarre temple tax story in Matthew 17. We learn that true generosity begins with paying our obligations, moves into blessing others by going above and beyond what is required, and is ultimately rooted in trusting God for all provision, even through miraculous means. Embrace Jesusy generosity by faithfully paying your dues, intentionally blessing beyond expectation, and confidently trusting God to provide for every need.
Title: Weddings and Walgreens
Scripture Reading: Matthew 22:1-14
Series: Salt
Are you treating the people around you like background characters in a video game or as souls invited to a royal banquet? Jesus illustrates the Kingdom of Heaven through the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, warning against the eternal consequences of rejecting God's invitation for worldly excuses. Believers must stop viewing neighbors as NPCs (non-playable characters) and instead embrace the command to invite everyone they encounter to the feast of Christ. Stop seeing people as background characters and intentionally invite someone in your daily life to experience the grace of God.
Title: Wrong Uniform, Right Faith
Scripture Reading: Matthew 8:5-13
Series: Be Bold!
What truly defines a bold faith: outward appearances and accomplishments, or something far deeper? This message concludes our "Be Bold!" series by exploring what it means to salute the highest authority. We learn that bold faith is not about the uniform you wear, as seen in the Roman Centurion’s faith, which transcended his Gentile identity. Furthermore, bold faith is not about the medals you’ve earned; the Centurion's charitable works were not the basis for his miracle, reminding us that human merit and transactional appeals to God are futile. Ultimately, bold faith is about the commander you salute, exemplified by the Centurion's profound humility regarding himself and unwavering confidence in Jesus's authority to heal remotely. Our boldest faith is found not in our outward identity or personal achievements, but in our humble and confident surrender to the supreme authority of Jesus Christ.
Title: A New Way to Walk
Scripture Reading: Matthew 14:22-33
Series: Be Bold!
What does it look like to step out of the boat and walk with boldness when the storms of life begin to rise? In this message, we examine Peter’s encounter with Jesus on the Sea of Galilee to discover a 'W.A.L.K.' acronym for being bold. We begin by recognizing that Jesus’s bold WALK enables our bold walk. To follow Him, we must ABANDON fear for faith. We find stability only when we LOCK eyes with Jesus, refusing to let the wind and waves of our circumstances distract us from His presence. Finally, true boldness leads us to KNEEL in worship, acknowledging Jesus’s sovereignty over all creation and His unique power to save us when we cry out. Commit to locking your eyes on Jesus today and call out to Him for help, trusting that He is already walking through the storm with you.
Title: How to Make a Ripple
Scripture Reading: Genesis 41:14-16
Series: Be Bold!
Can one single act of boldness really change the course of a nation and preserve the future of God's people? In this message, we use the acronym R.I.P.P.L.E. to examine how Joseph’s one bold act ripples outward. It begins with Joseph Revealing the Source by boldly crediting God for his ability to interpret dreams, which leads to Impacting the Throne as Pharaoh himself acknowledges the Spirit of God. This faithfulness transforms Joseph's Personal Identity, where even his Egyptian name points to the living God, and leads to a Promotion to Power that places him over the resources of Egypt. Furthermore, we see how his Lineage and Legacy create inroads for God’s influence in a foreign land, ultimately Ensuring the Covenant by positioning Joseph to save the family of Jacob during a global famine. Determine what 'bold rock' God is calling you to throw today—whether it is sharing a testimony or crediting Him in your workplace—and trust Him to handle the ripple effects.
Title: How to Hold God to His Character
Scripture Reading: Exodus 32:7-14
Series: Be Bold!
What if the secret to being bold is not demanding what we want, but reminding God of who He has already promised to be? In this message, we examine the high-stakes negotiation between Moses and God following Israel's immediate fall into idolatry with the golden calf. Moses demonstrates how to live out the Greatest Commandment by interceding for a rebellious people, choosing to hold God to His History as the one who rescued them from Egypt. He further appeals to God’s Honor, arguing that God’s reputation among the nations is tied to the survival of His people. Finally, Moses holds God to His Heritage by pointing back to the unbreakable covenant made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We see that just as Moses advocated for Israel, we are called to a life where we are saved from sin and saved to a life of worship, ultimately finding our hope in Jesus, the ultimate intercessor who stood in our place. Approach God with boldness by anchoring your prayers in His unchanging character, His historical faithfulness, and His covenant promises.
Title: How to Boldly Barter
Scripture Reading: Genesis 18:20-26
Series: Be Bold!
Is it possible for a mere human to negotiate with the Creator of the universe? In this message, we explore Abraham’s remarkable negotiation with God over the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah, revealing how boldness is the Greatest Commandment in action. We see how Abraham demonstrates Bold Belief by appealing to God’s character as a just, merciful, and righteous judge rather than trying to 'design' a god of his own making. This negotiation also exposes Abraham’s Bold Burden for others as he intercedes for his nephew Lot, a practice of intercession that ultimately points us to Jesus—the one righteous man whose sacrifice saves the many. Commit to interceding for others in prayer this week, trusting in the perfect justice and mercy of the one true Judge.
Title: Head in the Jar, Hands in the Scars
Scripture Reading: John 20:24-29
Series: Be Bold!
This episode features four videos which can be watched in order here:
1. Peanut in the Peanut Butter
2. Suel Forrester the Substitute Teacher
3. 4 Proofs of the Resurrection
4. Joe Rogan and Michael Shellenberger
Will you make the bold leap from evidence to faith? In this Resurrection Sunday message, we explore how Thomas moved from demanding proof to making a profound declaration of faith. The sermon first highlights Thomas’s bold personality as he dared to voice the questions and fears the other disciples were too afraid to mention. We then see the bold proof that Jesus gave to Thomas, proving that faith and evidence are not mutually exclusive. Finally, we are challenged by Thomas’s bold profession to move beyond mere investigation and into a committed belief in the Messiah, even while navigating the reality of lingering doubts. Don't wait for the absence of all doubt to make the bold leap from investigating the evidence to professing faith in Jesus Christ.
Title: Leave Your Dignity at the Door
Scripture Reading: 2 Samuel 6:12-23
Series: Be Bold!
Are you more concerned with maintaining your reputation in the pews or seeking the glory of the God you came to worship? In this message, we examine the return of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and discover that bold worship abandons self for God’s glory. By looking at the negative example of Michal, we see how spiritual distance, disdain, and disgust can lead to a heart consumed with self rather than the Creator. In contrast, King David provides a positive example by worshipping out of his election and demonstrating a willingness to be 'humiliated' in the eyes of the world to honor God. Ultimately, David’s undignified joy points us to Jesus Christ, the King who made Himself nothing and humbled Himself to the point of death to bring us to the Father.
Title: Bold Enough to Believe the Binary
Scripture Reading: 2 Peter 2:5; Hebrews 11:7; Genesis 6:13-22
Series: Be Bold!
In a world that values 'standing on the fence,' are you bold enough to believe in the binary reality of God’s judgment and salvation? This sermon explores the life of Noah to illustrate the necessity of taking a firm stand for God. Drawing a contrast between the indecision of Aaron Burr and the conviction of Thomas Jefferson, we examine how Noah chose to take a stand regarding the coming flood. The message breaks down the flood narrative into three parts—the timer, the terror, and the task—highlighting that the ark was a bold, public declaration of faith rather than a secret. Ultimately, believers are challenged to stand out from the crowd by embracing the biblical binary of eternal destinations, recognizing that while the world favors gray areas, God's word is clear on the reality of judgment and the promise of salvation. Stop 'standing on the fence' and boldly commit to the biblical truth that salvation is found only through faith in Jesus Christ.
Title: What Weapon Are You Reaching For?
Scripture Reading: Acts 4:23-31
Series: Be Bold!
When being bold for Christ backs you into a corner, what weapon are you reaching for? Following the release of Peter and John from the temple council, the early church provides a masterclass in responding to opposition. This message explores the 'weapon' of prayer through the P.R.A.Y. acronym, beginning with the need to Partner with other believers to overcome isolation and fear. We are encouraged to Recite God's Word back to Him in our petitions, which allows us to appeal to the highest authority and claim His promises. A vital part of the Christian walk is to Anticipate opposition, understanding that the cost of discipleship is part of the calling. Finally, we must Yield to the Holy Spirit, recognizing that true boldness is not a product of human willpower but a gift from Jesus, who modeled perfect prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Title: The Bold and the Beautiful Gate
Scripture Reading: Acts 4:5-22
Series: Be Bold!
Are you willing to slay your reputation for the sake of boldly doing the Lord’s will? Drawing inspiration from the life of William Wilberforce, this message explores what it means to speak the truth regardless of personal risk. By examining the account of Peter and John before the temple council, we see that true biblical boldness is modeled through three specific pillars. First, we must take Bold Action that brings glory to God rather than seeking worldly validation or personal prestige. Second, we are called to make a Bold Announcement, ensuring that our actions and our courage are explicitly connected to the name and power of Jesus. Finally, we must operate under Bold Authority, choosing to obey the heavenly King even when facing direct opposition or threats from earthly powers. We must ensure our boldness is animated by the Holy Spirit and aimed at the glory of Jesus, choosing to suffer for doing good rather than being punished for doing wrong.
Title: How to Trade Legends and Infuriate People
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:19-20
Series: Be Bold!
What if the boldest moves you make for God are met with the fiercest opposition rather than immediate triumph? Drawing from the high-stakes decisions of the Green Bay Packers' front office, this message explores why we shouldn't be surprised when following God leads to friction. By looking at the life of the Apostle Paul and the story of Moses, we examine the true Cost of standing firm. Rather than seeking a change in Circumstance or asking for rescue, we are called to stay the Course through persistent prayer before, during, and after trials. Ultimately, we find our strength in Christ, who paid the ultimate price of boldness on the cross so that we might have the courage to live for His glory. Instead of praying for God to remove your difficult circumstances, ask for the boldness to remain faithful and obedient right where you are.
Title: Shema Part 2: Hearing Without Heeding
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 6:4-5
Series: Shema
Why is hearing God's word often easier than truly obeying it? Chaplain Bob Turner explores the deep command found in the Shema: "Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one." Using the tragic 1986 Challenger disaster as a stark parallel, Bob's message contrasts simply hearing a critical warning versus actively heeding it, which had fatal consequences. The scripture commands us to love God completely—with all our heart, soul, and strength. While total depravity means we are naturally unable to meet this perfect standard, God, through the finished work of Christ, enables us to respond with perfect love. Our divine purpose is wrapped up entirely in this command to love God totally. This response is not a burdensome chore, but an invitation into the most fulfilling relationship possible with our loving Creator.
Title: Boldly A-Veil-Able
Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Hebrews 10:19-22
Series: Be Bold!
How can we truly be bold in our faith? Our boldness is only unlocked by the perfect boldness of Jesus. This message explores two major covenantal contrasts. The first contrast addresses Moses and the veil. Jesus removes the veil so we can boldly reflect His glory to others horizontally. The second contrast addresses the Most Holy Place in the Temple. Jesus's sacrifice tore the curtain wide open. This gives us immediate vertical access to the Father's throne room. We can boldly approach God anytime, anywhere. Jesus has made the way wide open for us.
Title: How to Be Bold
Scripture Reading: Joshua 1:6-9
Series: Be Bold!
How do we move from cautious faith to courageous action? We learn the answer from Joshua, who was commanded to be strong and courageous. True boldness is born out of trust in God. To be bold, we must first "Take Hold" of the unique calling God has placed on our lives. Next, we must "Take Heed" of God's Word by internalizing it through study and conversation. Finally, we must "Take Heart." We never go into a moment of boldness alone. The Holy Spirit is always with us, just as Jesus promised. Through these three simple steps, we can live out our mission statement boldly in the year ahead.
Title: Wisdom
Scripture Reading: Job 28:1-3, 23-28
Guest preacher Adam Brill joins Grace 242 to explore the concept of wisdom as presented in Job 28, which acts as an "interlude" within the book of Job, bridging historical narrative and poetic dialogue. It contrasts human efforts to acquire valuable material possessions with the unattainable nature of true wisdom through human means. Wisdom ultimately comes solely from God, found in fearing the Lord and shunning evil. Adam leaves us with an encouragement toward biblical literacy and understanding of scriptural context.
Title: A Better Worth
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:3-7a, 2 Corinthians 8:9
Series: A Better Story
Painting: https://ibb.co/wv0YyXH
In this episode, Peggy and Pastor Bill discuss the Peggy's painting which you can view here. Peggy's painting vividly contrasts worldly wealth and possessions (depicted in black and white) with the true riches found in Jesus Christ (represented in color). Peggy shares her personal journey from believing worldly success was the ultimate goal to realizing its emptiness, learning that all earthly "trappings" pale in comparison to Christ's humble sacrifice. The sermon emphasizes that through Jesus's humility—the King of the cosmos stooping to become a baby boy in a manger—we are freed from the oppressive need to pursue material wealth and instead embrace a life of true humility and purpose in Him.
Title: A Better King
Scripture Reading: Matthew 2:1-2, 9-11
Series: A Better Story
In this special Christmas Eve episode of A Better Story, guest Taylor Englund joins us to explore the cosmic magnitude of the Christmas story. Moving beyond the traditional narrative, we dive into the fascinating historical theory that Jesus was actually born on September 11, 3 B.C., aligning with the Jewish Feast of Trumpets. Tune in to discover the true identity of the Magi, the astronomical evidence behind the Star of Bethlehem found in Revelation 12, and how the heavens themselves heralded the arrival of the King of kings.
Title: A Better Family Tree
Scripture Reading: Matthew 1:1-2, 16-17
Series: A Better Story
In this episode of A Better Story, co-host Katie Hartline joins the discussion to unpack the surprisingly messy family tree of Jesus found in Matthew 1. We explore why God chose to include outsiders, deceivers, and even a king who practiced human sacrifice in the lineage of the Messiah. Discover how this "unsanitized" genealogy proves that God doesn't just fix the past—He redeems it, offering hope to every broken family and individual today.
Title: A Better Announcement
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:8-20
Series: A Better Story
We're celebrating Advent at Grace 242 with podcast-style sermons on the theme: A Better Story. God's plan to send His Son on Christmas was a far better story than any of us could have possibly written. Today Kathy Rosen joins Pastor Bill to explore the God's plan to announce the birth of His Son to an unlikely group of shepherds.
Title: Legation
Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2
Series: The “L” Fruits of Jesus
The final "L" fruit of Jesus is legation, meaning disciples are called to act as Christ's ambassadors to the world, a concept explored through four "ships." This identity begins with Citizenship, as we represent the Kingdom of Heaven while living here on earth, stepping into the divine Partnership God established with humanity from Adam onward. Since history shows that humanity repeatedly failed to fulfill this role, the core of our message must rest on the Lordship of Jesus, the perfect legate who secured reconciliation through the cross. Finally, our ultimate Worship as legates is expressed through urgency, embracing our authoritative mission to advance Christ's agenda today, right now.
Title: Lavishness
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 1:7-8
Series: The “L” Fruits of Jesus
The 1986 "Hands Across America" generosity event fell short, but how does God's abundant generosity prove that His plan for us is truly lavish? This sermon explores the concept of lavishness as an essential fruit of a follower of Jesus, illustrating the profound generosity of God through the metaphor of hands. True discipleship begins with The Receiving Hand, recognizing the immense, abundant grace, mercy, and forgiveness God has lavished upon us through Christ. This received forgiveness establishes a necessary pattern for us to follow. We are called to extend the same mercy to others through The Forgiving Hand, remembering that forgiven people must forgive people, thereby reversing the curse of cyclical revenge. Finally, we express lavishness through The Giving Hand, sharing our finances, resources, and time, confident that if God cares for the birds and lilies, He will supply all our needs, allowing us to live the abundant life Jesus promised.
Title: Level-Headedness
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:21-24
Series: The “L” Fruits of Jesus
Notice: This message interviews one of Grace 242's covenant partners about the sketch he made of Jesus. View those images here.
Like the character Riley in the movie Inside Out , every human has emotions, feelings, and attitudes; they are part of the human experience. But how do we ensure these emotions are healthy? This sermon, part of "The L Fruits of Jesus" series, explores the fruit of level-headedness.
This message examines Level-Headedness through three "L"s:
The Lordship of Level-Headedness: This explores what it means to place our attitudes, feelings, and emotions under the lordship of Jesus Christ. It examines the two "ditches" churches often fall into: replacing scripture's authority with feelings or removing emotions from discipleship entirely, which can lead to being spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature.
The Likeness of Level-Headedness: Looking at Ephesians 4:24, this "L" discusses what it means to be "created to be like God." While God has emotions, He is impassible (His state doesn't change). Jesus, however, fully shared the human emotional experience to redeem and restore the image of God in us. In this section, Pastor Bill contrasts depictions of emotionless Jesus with a sketch that Bob from Grace 242 did. Those images may be viewed here.
The Labor of Level-Headedness: This section provides practical application based on Ephesians 4:22-24. We are to "throw off" the old nature, "put on" the new, and let the Spirit "renew our thoughts and attitudes." The key question is whether we are submitting our emotions to the Master or letting our emotions master us. The goal is not to be emotionless , but to direct our emotions for God's glory.
Title: Lowliness
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:3-11
Series: The “L” Fruits of Jesus
Have you ever had a social situation where you had to deal with a one-upper? One-upping, or pride, is the way of the world, but the way of Jesus is the exact opposite: lowliness or humility. Disciples of Jesus are instructed to have the same attitude as Christ. This message explores the "L" fruit of lowliness through three questions:
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What is Humility? Humility is not thinking more of yourself (overt pride/vain conceit) or thinking less of yourself (covert pride/selfish ambition). Rather, humility is thinking accurately and truthfully about yourself.
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How to Practice Humility? We practice humility by having the same attitude as Christ Jesus and making ourselves of no reputation. Jesus made Himself of no reputation by serving, obeying, and dying. We are called to serve others (taking the position of a slave), obey God's plan, and die to ourselves—to our name, reputation, plans, preferences, and desires.
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Why Value Humility? Disciples of Jesus value humility because it is the fruit of life. Pride is the fruit of death, as seen in Adam and Eve's rebellion to spread their own reputation. In contrast, Jesus's perfect humility is our life and our salvation.
Episode Title: Learning
Scripture Reading: Romans 12:2, John 8:31 ESV
Series: The “L” Fruits of Jesus
Disciples of Jesus are learners—the learning never stops! This week, we dive into the second "L" fruit of Jesus, the fruit of Learning, and explore the two ways disciples are called to learn and grow in Christ. Romans 12:2 gives us two ways of learning, both starting with the letter "I":
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Information: This method, associated with Hellenism, focuses on the renewal of your mind. Disciples are called to be faithful learners by meditating on God's Word, looking for a daily God nugget, and internalizing media that is pure and commendable.
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Imitation: This method, associated with Hebraism, focuses on not being conformed to this world, but imitating Christ. Just as an apprentice learns by observing and patterning their life after their rabbi, disciples learn by apprenticing themselves to Jesus, who says, "learn from me".
Ultimately, disciples don't conform to the world; we conform to Christ by renewing our minds and apprenticing ourselves to the gentle Master, Jesus
Title: Love
Scripture Reading: Matthew 22:35-40, Matthew 7:17-20, Matthew 7:13-14
Series: The “L” Fruits of Jesus
When observing the lavish lifestyle of a televangelist, it’s easy to question the "fruit" of their ministry. Jesus Himself said we would identify people by their fruit. So, what fruit should we expect to see in the life of a disciple?
This sermon kicks off a new series, "The 'L' Fruits of Jesus," by focusing on the most foundational fruit: Love. We explore the two critical axes of Christian love. The vertical axis is loving God, which is demonstrated not just by hearing His word, but by our obedience to it. The horizontal axis is loving others, which requires traveling the "narrow road." This difficult path specifically challenges us to love our enemies and to speak the truth in love , even when the world redefines what "truth" and "love" mean.
Title: Utility Closet – Prayer
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42, Ephesians 6:18-20
Series: The 242 Blueprint
In the 1970s, Xerox invented the future of computing with the graphical user interface (GUI) and the mouse, but failed to realize the gold mine they were sitting on. They squandered their best resource, which Apple and Steve Jobs eagerly capitalized on to revolutionize the world. Christians often treat prayer the same way Xerox treated the GUI—as our most powerful, yet least utilized, weapon. Discover the three prompts that awaken us to the power of prayer: 1. Its intimacy 2. Its difficulty, and 3. Its consistency. Learn what it means to pray "in the Spirit" and align yourself with what God is already doing.
Title: Dining Room – Sharing Meals
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42, Luke 7:34
Series: The 242 Blueprint
The third component of the church's blueprint found in Acts 2:42 is the sharing of meals. Jesus provides the model for how we should approach the table, teaching us how to E.A.T.
- E - Example of Jesus: The early church shared meals because Jesus constantly shared meals. He was so often at the meal table that his accusers called him a glutton and a drunkard.
- A - Accepting the Outsider: A key part of Jesus's example was accepting those who were considered outsiders, like tax collectors and sinners. When Jesus dines with a tax collector named Levi, it forces us to choose our reaction: the pride of the Pharisees who sneer at Jesus's choice of company, or the humility of Levi who recognizes that if Jesus welcomes sinners, he welcomes us.
- T - Table Task: Jesus used the table to carry out his discipleship mission. We are called to do the same by leveraging our tables for mission. We can do this by practicing spiritual disciplines, having spiritual conversations, and extending hospitality to others around our tables. The table is mission control for the family and a primary tool for discipleship.
Title: Living Room – Fellowship
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42, Ephesians 5:30, John 13:35
Series: The 242 Blueprint
This message is the second in the series "The 242 Blueprint," which examines Acts 2:42 as a foundational model for the church. This week's sermon focuses on the topic of fellowship, using the analogy of watching football in a living room to explore what it means to be part of the Christian community.
The message outlines three biblical facets of fellowship:
- The Player: Recognizing that we are not isolated individuals but members of a team—the body of Christ. This requires a shift from individualization to incorporation.
- The Position: Every member has a unique function and spiritual gifts to use for the church. This calls for a shift from inaction to involvement.
- The Purpose: The purpose of the church's love for one another is to be so extraordinary that it shows the world who Jesus is. This requires a shift from insularity to invitation.
Title: Foundation – The Apostles’ Teaching
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42, 1 Corinthians 15:3-5
Series: The 242 Blueprint
What do the Leaning Tower of Pisa and a luxury skyscraper in San Francisco have in common? A faulty foundation. Just as a building requires a solid base to stand, so does the church.
We're kicking off a new series, "The 242 Blueprint," based on the four foundational elements of the early church found in Acts 2:42. In this episode, we examine the very first pillar: the apostles' teaching. This teaching wasn't a complex philosophy but a powerful testimony to a single, world-changing event: Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah because He walked out of the grave.
Join us as we explore why this truth was a reliable foundation for the church in the past, is reliable in the present, and will be reliable in the future. We'll discuss how Jesus's resurrection makes truth objective, why this truth is often divisive but always worth fighting for, and how it provides an unshakable hope for our future. This message will challenge you to see the Bible not as a textbook to be studied, but as the living and active story that points to the one we worship: the risen Jesus Christ.
Title: Grace Isn't Lazy
Scripture Reading: 1 Timothy 4:7-10
Pastor Bill returns from his summer sabbatical to give three reflections on training for godliness:
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Discipline takes effort.
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Discipline affects others.
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Discipline pays off.
Title: Pre-Snap Penalties and Pointed Fingers
Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:1-5
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are in a series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5-7.
Today's passage is simultaneously one of the most quoted and least understood sections of scripture.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: How Do You Forgive a Nazi?
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:43-45
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are in a series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5-7.
This is probably the most difficult section of an already difficult sermon. How do we shown what we've been shown to our enemies? Four verbs: 1. Remember 2. Look 3. Ask 4. Approach
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: How Georgia Guys Showed God's Goodness
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:7
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are in a series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5-7.
Today's sermon examines the difference between mercy and grace from 4 Standpoints.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: The Worst Worst-Case Scenario
Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:21-23
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are in a series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5-7.
What's even worse than someone not knowing Jesus and dying and going to hell? Matthew 7:21-23 tells us.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: Slippery Sand and Saving Stone
Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:24-27
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are in a series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5-7.
At the end of His sermon, Jesus contrasts two foundations: the sand and the rock. We examine two sandy foundations and the one solid foundation that we ought to be building on.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: If You Could be Any Animal, Which One Would You Be?
Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:6, Matthew 10:11-16
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are in a series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5-7.
Picking up where we left off last week, what are the practical implications for Matthew 7:6? How can we live out Matthew 7:6 in our own lives? Jesus shows us. We must be three animals: 1. Be Snakes 2. Be Dove 3. Be Sheep.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: Don't Be Dumb
Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:6
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are in a series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5-7.
In this seemingly obscure, non-sequential, single-verse teaching, Jesus teaches us not be D.U.M.B. John 6 is an illustration of Matthew 7:6.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: Hide it Under a Bushel? No!
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:13-16
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are in a series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5-7.
Jesus, in Matthew 5:13-16, gives us an equation: Salt + Light = Glorified Heavenly Father. As a part two to last week's message, how can we glorify our Heavenly Father by living as salt and light? There are three Ways. 1. Engage the Wealth. 2. Engage the Word. 3. Engage the World.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: When High Sodium Content is Good
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:13-16
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are beginning a new series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapters 5-7.
Jesus, in Matthew 5:13-16, gives us an equation: Salt + Light = Glorified Heavenly Father. In this week we dig into the biblical interpretation of what Jesus means when He likens His followers to Salt and Light. Pastor Bill ends this sermon by riffing on how prone we are to hide our light under a basket rather than living as examples of Jesus in the world.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: How the Good Life Rolls
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:3-12
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are beginning a new series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapters 5-7.
Today we look at the introductory part of Jesus' sermon known as "The Beatitudes." We explore these attitudes that a disciple of Jesus ought to be through three "S"s: 1. The Sense of the word "Blessed" 2. There's a Surprise of those who are blessed. 3. The Significance for disciples of Jesus.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
Title: How to Sell Someone on Poverty
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:1-12
Series: Sermon on the Mount
Coinciding with the start of Lent, we are beginning a new series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapters 5-7.
Today we look at Jesus introduction to the sermon through five body parts: 1. Feet 2. Eyes 3. Ears 4. Head 5. Heart to discover that Matthew 5:3 is the key to the entire sermon.
Please join us in Pastor Bill's challenge to read through the entire sermon, Matthew 5-7, at least once per week. Share your stories and takeaways on our shout out board here: https://t.ly/pvx50
To kick off 2025, we are spotting ways in which the DNA of the faith one for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3) is mutated and changed.
Title: How NOT to Trust Your Inner Knowing
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 30:21 ESV
One of the messages that gets circulated in Christian circles is listening to your heart or, as one author writes, your "inner knowing." In today's message we first look at why we can't trust our hearts. Then Pastor Bill gives four checks for discerning between your own inner voice that cannot be trusted and the voice of the Holy Spirit. Those four checks are:
- Does it Align with the Bible?
- Are You Accounting for Your Own Sinfulness?
- Who Ultimately Gets the Glory?
- What Sort of Road Does it Resemble?
To kick off 2025, we are spotting ways in which the DNA of the faith one for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3) is mutated and changed.
Title: Surely Nothing is Sure
Scripture Reading: Psalm 25:4-5
One of the mutations that poses as a more Christianly, humble, loving, attitude to have is this idea that nothing is sure. That somehow certainty, surety, and confidence are arrogant and uncertainty, questioning, and prevarication are more loving, more Christlike, more Christian. But this is reversal. David, in Psalm 25 shows us that, especially when we're in crisis, the surety of our faith is not only necessary, but more loving, more Christ-like, and more Christian.
This Sunday Grace 242 celebrates God's faithfulness over the past year in our first-ever worship home. Deacon Karin Barnes brings us the message today about remembering God's faithfulness.
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 27:1-8
To kick off 2025, we are spotting ways in which the DNA of the faith one for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3) is mutated and changed.
Title: The Wonderful World of Unfair
Scripture Reading: Micah 6:8
Many of us conjure a mental image when we describe skinny jeans Christians who promote a gospel of social justice. But with social justice so in vogue with Christians, what is true, biblical justice?
To kick off 2025, we are spotting ways in which the DNA of the faith one for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3) is mutated and changed.
Title: How NOT to Live Your Authentic Self
Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17
Today we contrast the biblical idea of becoming your most authentic self with the self-help mutation that has made its way into the church.
To kick off 2025, we are spotting ways in which the DNA of the faith one for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3) is mutated and changed.
Title: If You Love Me, You'll Give Me a Like
Scripture Reading: 1 John 4:7-8
Last week we looked at how our vertical love for God is mutated and this week we pinpoint at how our horizontal love for others is mutated. First we walk through three characteristics of the mutation of love for others. Then we walk through an authentication of love for others by identifying three characteristics of true, biblical love for others.
To kick off 2025, we are spotting ways in which the DNA of the faith one for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3) is mutated and changed.
Title: God's Love Unboxed and Reboxed
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 3:18-19
Today we look at the magic trick that mutates God's love into something it isn't. We walk through the three steps of the magic trick, and then we respond with three movements of biblical truth.
This Advent we're conducting a Christmas Scene Investigation to sleuth out how the differences between our magical, mythical conceptions of Christmas differ from the Biblical reality of Christmas.
Title: The Inn
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:7 NIV (1984)
Today we conduct an INNvestigation of the "I" in CSI which is Inn. We ask two questions: 1. So where? 2. So what?
This Advent we're conducting a Christmas Scene Investigation to sleuth out how the differences between our magical, mythical conceptions of Christmas differ from the Biblical reality of Christmas.
Title: The Stable
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:6-16 NIV (1984)
Today we investigate the S of CSI as we investigate the Stable. First we look at the Setting of Jesus' birth. Next we look at the Significance of that Setting.
This Advent we're conducting a Christmas Scene Investigation to sleuth out how the differences between our magical, mythical conceptions of Christmas differ from the Biblical reality of Christmas.
Title: The Child
Scripture Reading: Luke 1:31-35 NIV (1984)
Today we investigate the C of CSI as we investigate the Child. Our investigation concludes that Jesus is both divine and human at the same time. However, our magical mythical conceptions of Christmas can easily emphasize Jesus' divinity at the expense of His humanity. What does Jesus' humanity mean for us?
In these three weeks between the election and Advent, we're looking at the book of Daniel. What sort of lessons can we learn from how Daniel related to his government as we relate to our government?
Title: The Truth About Humans Acting Like Animals
Scripture Reading: Daniel 4:18-19, 24-27
In Daniel 4, we see Daniel's commitment to the truth regardless of fear. Exiles are committed to the truth. We demonstrate commitment to the truth by:
1. Discerning the Truth
2. Speaking the Truth
3. Following the Truth
In these three weeks between the election and Advent, we're looking at the book of Daniel. What sort of lessons can we learn from how Daniel related to his government as we relate to our government?
Title: An Exile's Guide to Government
Scripture Reading: Daniel 2:29-35
What's with this bizarre dream of Nebuchadnezzar's in chapter 2 of Daniel? The dream makes three sovereignty statements:
1. God is sovereign over Empires
2. God is sovereign over Events
3. God is sovereign over Eternity
In these three weeks between the election and Advent, we're looking at the book of Daniel. What sort of lessons can we learn from how Daniel related to his government as we relate to our government?
Title: An Exile's Guide to Government
Scripture Reading: Daniel 1:1-8
Today we look at exile:
1. What is it?
2. Our actions within it.
3. Obedience amidst it.
Series: Learn to Block
Title: Why Doesn't Jesus Just Nuke Satan?
Scripture Reading: Revelation 11:36
This is our final week in our Learn to Block series on spiritual warfare. One of our people at Grace 242 insightfully asks, "Why don't Jesus just nuke Satan?" Today we answer that question by looking at three "triple G" or God Getting Glory moments.
- Incarnation
- Cross
- Eschaton
Series: Learn to Block
Title: The Accuser's Shame Old Tricks
Scripture Reading: Revelation 12:10
This is our eighth week learning how to block the fiery arrows of the enemy. Revelation 12:10 refers to Satan as "the accuser." Today we look at some of the accusations made against us by the accuser and how they feed a complex of shame within us.
The accusations we cover are:
1. You’re Too Sinful to Be Forgiven
2. You Haven’t Done Enough to be Saved
3. Your True Self is Unlovable
Series: Learn to Block
Title: Temptation Tactics
Scripture Reading: Matthew 4:1-11
This is our seventh week learning how to block the fiery arrows of the enemy. Jesus' temptation by Satan in the wilderness reveals several tactics for how Satan tempts us:
- Satan exploits our priors
- Satan exploits our methods
- Satan exploits our distinctions
Series: Learn to Block
Title: Tactics of the Father of Lies
Scripture Reading: John 8:44
This is our sixth week learning how to block the fiery arrows of the enemy. Whereas last week we looked at lies within us, today we turn our focus outward with the goal of identifying the lies in our culture. We identify three lies:
- The lie of Reversal
- The lie of Normalization
- The lie of Redefinition
Series: Learn to Block
Title: The Big Lie-ar
Scripture Reading: John 8:44
This is our fifth week learning how to block the fiery arrows of the enemy. Today we get practical by identifying the tactics of the "father of lies." This week we cover two lie tactics:
- The lie of Projection
- The lie of Catastrophizing
Series: Learn to Block
Title: Tactics of Deception
Scripture Reading: John 8:44
This is our fourth week learning how to block the fiery arrows of the enemy. Today we examine spiritual warfare through John 8:44 to see that the conflict is between the One sent by the Father full of grace and truth and the father of lies. We examine John 8:44 through three Cs.
- Conflict
- Combatants
- Contention
We conclude the message by surveying three practical suggestions for blocking Satan's fiery arrows of lies.
- Stop consuming news.
- Carve out distraction-free, screenless time to read a physical book Bible.
- Meet God in His creation.
Series: Learn to Block
Title: Tactics of Deception
Scripture Reading: Genesis 3:1-7
This is our third week learning how to block the fiery arrows of the enemy. Today we examine the fall in Genesis 3 to discern the tactics of deception that Satan still uses on us today. We explore three of Satan's tactics of deception:
- Presumption of Innocence
- Impugning God's Character
- Kernels of Truth
Series: Learn to Block
Title: Know Your Enemy
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:12
This is our second week learning how to block the fiery arrows of the enemy. Today we look at who that enemy is through 6 facts:
- Satan is not God's equal counterpart
- Satan is not a proper name
- Satan is not omniscient
- Satan is not omnipotent
- Satan is not omnipresent
- Satan is not redeemable
Series: Learn to Block
Title: Learn to Block
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:16
This fall kicks off a new series on spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:16 tells us that we need to learn how to block the fiery arrows of the spiritual enemy. Today we look at a basic blocking technique with four Rs.
- Recognize
- Raise
- Resist
- Relief
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...Are We in the End Times?
Scripture Reading: Matthew 24:3-8
Are we living in the end times? All of the signs of Jesus' return from Matthew 24:3-8 are operative today so are the end times upon us? We explore this question through 3 "D"s:
Define - What do we mean when we say "end times?"
Don't - What shouldn't we do in regards to the end times?
Do - What should we do about the end times?
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...About the Dinosaurs?
Scripture Reading: Genesis 1:24-25
Today Bob Turner preaches on a fun question from our kids. What about the dinosaurs?
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...Does God appoint evil leaders to punish a nation for turning their back on Him?
Scripture Reading: 1 Kings 14:15-16
We explore the question through 5 "R"s
1. Reveal
2. Reason
3. Reality
4. Result
5. Response
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...What does James mean when he instructs us not to show favoritism?
Scripture Reading: James 1:27-2:13
In James chapter 2, we're instructed not to show favoritism. What does this mean and how can we live it out? James 2:13 gives us the thesis statement: Treat others as God treats you. This week is part 2 of this message where we look at the second part of that statement: how God treats us.
We discover that God did not disfavor us orphans, but adopts us into His own family. And God did not favor merit for salvation because we have none.
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...What does James mean when he instructs us not to show favoritism?
Scripture Reading: James 1:27-2:13
In James chapter 2, we're instructed not to show favoritism. What does this mean and how can we live it out? James 2:13 gives us the thesis statement: Treat others as God treats you. This week is part 1 of this message where we look at the first part of that statement: how we treat others. We discover that we treat others by not showing favor to perceived wealthy individuals or disfavor to perceived poor folks, people like widows and orphans (1:27).
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...What Was the Fruit Adam and Eve Ate?
Scripture Reading: Genesis 3:1-6
This summer we are diving into your Bible and faith wonderings. When Adam and Eve ate the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, what type of fruit did they eat? We explore this wondering with three questions:
1. What is it?
2. Why care about it?
3. How to produce it?
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...How can we love God if we are supposed to fear Him as well?
Scripture Reading: Psalm 147:10-11
This summer we are diving into your Bible and faith wonderings. Scripture commands us to both love and fear God at the same time? How can we do this? In answering this question, we explore three negative examples of fear and two positive examples of fear.
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...Why God?
Scripture Reading: Revelation 4:11
This summer we are diving into your Bible and faith wonderings. At one point or another, we've all wondered why bad stuff is happening to us. Today we explore the guttural why.
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...Why Pray if God's Will Prevails?
Scripture Reading: James 5:13-18
This summer we are diving into your Bible and faith wonderings. If God is sovereign and if His will will always prevail, why pray? If God foreknows what will transpire, is there a point to praying?
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...Why Don't We Have Burnt Offerings Anymore
Scripture Reading: Leviticus 1:9b
This summer we are diving into your Bible and faith wonderings. In the Old Testament, burnt offerings were a feature of worship. Why don't have to make offerings anymore today?
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...Can the Elect be Deceived??
Scripture Reading: Matthew 24:24-25
This summer we are diving into your Bible and faith wonderings. What is Jesus talking about when He says that false prophets, false messiahs, and deceivers will attempt to deceive the elect? Who are the elect and can they be deceived?
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...Do We Go to Heaven Immediately When We Die?
Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
This summer we are diving into your Bible and faith wonderings. The Bible seems to indicate that there is a period of time between the death of believers and believers receiving their resurrected bodies. What's the timeline after we die and what are we to make of it?
Series: I Wonder...
Title: I Wonder...How to Wonder
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-32
This summer we are diving into your Bible and faith wonderings. Today Job shows us that wonder requires both understanding and mystery. Our wonder ought to drive us to worship the Wondrous One.
Last week we discovered the triangular shape of Jesus' life. This week we seek to pattern our lives off of Jesus' life. As Jesus was UP, IN, and OUT, Grace 242 is called to Being, Making, and, Multiplying Disciples.
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42-47
This week in our "Simple Mission" series we look at the triangular shape of Jesus' life. Luke 6:12-19 follows Jesus as He is UP with the Father, IN with His disciples, and OUT with the crowds. Jesus' life takes a triangular shape which means we ought to pattern our lives in the same way.
Scripture Reading: Luke 6:12-19
Our "Simple Mission" series continues with a look at the Great
Commission. From Jesus' ascension through the first three centuries the church was a weird, disciple-making movement. But Roman Emperor Constantine changed the church from a disciple-making movement, to a central cultural institution. Now that Grace 242 has gone from house churches to a worship location, how can we stay weird?
Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:18-20
Continuing in our "Simple Mission" series, today we look at Mary of Bethany to see how she exemplifies a disciple - a learner of Jesus.
Scripture Reading: Luke 10:38-42
Today we begin a new series on why Grace 242's exists called "Simple Mission." Jesus' healing of a Gentile woman's daughter gives us insight into Jesus' ministry scope and focus. As a church, we ought not do everything; rather, we should focus our efforts on only those things that God is calling us to.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 15:21-28
Scripture Reading: John 12:12-19
We just got done with Easter, but now we're going back to Palm Sunday to discover three identity markers of Jesus: 1. Prophet 2. Miraculous 3. Messianic.
This message concludes our Lent series on the prayer of our Lord Jesus in John 17.
It's not what you know, it's who you know. In John 17:3 Jesus gives us the best definition of salvation, salvation is knowing Jesus. On this Resurrection Sunday, do you know Jesus?
On this Palm Sunday, we welcome Pastor Barrett Marcantel from Hingham Church to preach on Mark 11:1-11.
This Lent we are studying our Lord Jesus' prayer in John 17.
In John 17:13-18 Jesus prays that His followers would be in the world, but not of the world. What does it mean to be in the world, but not of the world and how can we live that out?
This Lent we are studying our Lord Jesus' prayer in John 17.
Jesus' plan of evangelism in John 17:20-23 is a supernatural unity. This is part 2 of a two-part message. In part 1 one of this message, we saw that Jesus' unlikely plan of evangelism is supernatural unity? In part 2 of this message we are asking, "How can we live into supernatural unity?" This week we survey two false expressions of unity and one true expression of supernatural unity.
This Lent we are studying our Lord Jesus' prayer in John 17.
Jesus' plan of evangelism in John 17:20-23 is a supernatural unity. In part 1 one of this message, we investigate, what is this supernatural unity that Jesus prays for? In part 2 of this message we will look into how we can live out this supernatural unity.
This Lent we are studying our Lord Jesus' prayer in John 17.
This week we orient ourselves to Jesus' prayer in John 17 by asking, "Why did Jesus Pray?" The diagram for this week's sermon is here: https://is.gd/Fi1ruu
This is the first new year in Grace 242's worship home! Therefore, we're going through our worship serving asking, "Why do we do this?"
This week we ask, "Why sing?" Psalm 9:11 shows us that there is a vertical and a horizontal dimension to singing. Why sing? Because God deserves it.
Message: Why Sing?
Scripture Reading: Psalm 9:11
This is the first new year in Grace 242's worship home! Therefore, we're going through our worship serving asking, "Why do we do this?"
This week we ask, "Why pray?" James 5:13-18 shows us that we pray earnestly when we bring our whole selves to God for the purpose that He may increase, and we may decrease.
Message: Why pray?
Scripture Reading: James 5:13-18
This is the first new year in Grace 242's worship home! Therefore, we're going through our worship serving asking, "Why do we do this?"
This week we ask, "Why preach a message?" As Mark 1:14-15 instructs us, we repent and turn away from our will. Then we believe and turn to God's will. This is why we preach a message.
Message: Why preach a message?
Scripture Reading: Mark 1:14-15
This is the first new year in Grace 242's worship home! Therefore, we're going through our worship serving asking, "Why do we do this?"
This week we ask, "Why welcome God?" Hosea 6:6 reveals two things that God requires of us in worship.
Message: Why welcome God?
Scripture Reading: Hosea 6:6
This is the first new year in Grace 242's worship home! Therefore, we're going through our worship serving asking, "Why do we do this?"
This week we answer three objections to gathering for a worship service.
Message: Why Gather for Worship?
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:44
The Gospel of John calls Jesus the "Light of Life." It's Christmas Eve so we're looking at four times in the Bible where people were drawn to Jesus by light. No matter your situation, come to the Light of Life.
Scripture Reading: John 12:46
The Gospel of John calls Jesus the "Light of Life." This Advent we prepare our hearts to welcome the Light of Life. Today we look at two misinterpretations of Matthew 5:14-16 to see how we can live as children of the light.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:14-16.
The Gospel of John calls Jesus the "Light of Life." This Advent we prepare our hearts to welcome the Light of Life. Today we trace the themes of light and darkness throughout scripture.
Scripture Reading: John 1:1-5
The Gospel of John calls Jesus the "Light of Life." This Advent we prepare our hearts to welcome the Light of Life. Today we see that even though Jesus is the Light of Life, we still gravitate toward the darkness.
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 9:1-2
As Grace 242 rises to our new worship home, we are looking at the rise of the temple in Jerusalem. In Solomon's temple dedication ceremony prayer, he praises God as the one who transcends the temple, but at the same time hears Solomon's prayer. Our God is both transcendent and immanent at the same time! Now that's unique!
Series: Rise
Scripture Reading: 2 Chronicles 6:12-14
As Grace 242 rises to our new worship home, we are looking at the rise of the temple in Jerusalem. At the entrance to the temple, Hiram constructs two pillars, one named "Jakin" and the other named "Boaz." What did these pillars mean for Israel and what do these pillars mean for us?
Series: Rise
Scripture Reading: 2 Chronicles 3:17
As Grace 242 rises to our new worship home, we are looking at the rise of the temple in Jerusalem. In 2 Chronicles 7:8-10 the people return home from the temple celebration with great joy. How can we impact our world so full of sadness? We cultivate the joy of the Lord in our own lives.
Series: Rise
Scripture Reading: 2 Chronicles 7:8-10
As Grace 242 rises to our new worship home, we are looking at the rise of the temple in Jerusalem. Solomon's prayer at the temple dedication ceremony anticipates Israel's failure to follow God's law. Solomon knew the people would be at mercy of God's grace. Will we be a people who reflect God's grace?
Series: Rise
Scripture Reading: 2 Chronicles 6:16-21
As Grace 242 rises to our new worship home, we are looking at the rise of the temple in Jerusalem. In 2 Chronicles 7:19-22 God warns Solomon and the Israelites never to abandon the name of the Lord. With this warning in mind, how can we, the people of God, carry the name of the Lord?
Series: Rise
Scripture Reading: 2 Chronicles 7:19-22
As Grace 242 rises to our new worship home, we are looking at the rise of the temple in Jerusalem. 2 Chronicles 3:1-2 gives two names for the construction site of the temple. Today we look at the second of those names, "The Threshing Floor of Araunah."
Series: Rise
Scripture Reading: 2 Chronicles 3:1-2
As Grace 242 rises to our new worship home, we are looking at the rise of the temple in Jerusalem. 2 Chronicles 3:1-2 gives two names for the construction site of the temple. Today we look at the first of those names, "Mount Moriah."
Series: Rise
Scripture Reading: 2 Chronicles 3:1-2
As Grace 242 rises to our new worship home, we are looking at the rise of the temple in Jerusalem. With the completion of the worship home, how can we get away from what we want out of worship and rather focus on what God deserves? 1 Chronicles 5:13-6:2 gives us two things to think about: 1. God is good. 2. God is faithfully kind.
Series: Rise
Scripture Reading: 1 Chronicles 5:13-6:2
As Grace 242 rises to its new worship home, we begin a new series called "Rise" where we are looking at the rise of the Temple in Jerusalem. In 1 Chronicles 22:11-13 King David charges his son Solomon to be courageous and obedient to the Lord. How can we be courageously obedient?
Series: Rise
Scripture Reading: 1 Chronicles 22:11-13
This summer we're preaching Proverbs that people reference often. This week we look at Proverbs 14:1-3 which continues in the theme of discipline in the book of Proverbs. We look at three biblical characters who played the fool of Proverbs 14:1-3. Not only do Eve, Solomon, and Rehoboam all play the fool, but because of sin, we all play the fool. Jesus is the one who breaks us out of our foolishness. Jesus, though he was no fool, was beaten as the fool, to make us wise.
This summer we're preaching Proverbs that people reference often. This week we look at Proverbs 23:13-14 which continues in the theme of discipline in the book of Proverbs. What should parents do about physical discipline? Should we use spanking as a form of discipline or not? Ultimately the rod of discipline was ensured by us, yet endured by Jesus.
This summer we're preaching Proverbs that people reference often. This week we look at Proverbs 3:11-12 which gets us into the theme of discipline in the book of Proverbs. It can be unsettling to read about the rod of discipline in Proverbs so how can we deal with it? How can we approach the rod of discipline in our own lives? Proverbs 3:11-12 gives us a two word answer: 1. We can be "receptive" and 2. We can be "confident."
This summer we're preaching Proverbs that people reference often. This week we look at Proverbs 3:5-8 which contrasts the foolish person with the wise person. The wise person fears the Lord (Proverbs 3:7). Does fearing God mean I need to be afraid of him?
This summer we're preaching Proverbs that people reference often. This week we examine two biblical events in light of Proverbs 3:5-8.
This summer we're preaching Proverbs that people reference often. This week we look at how the portrait of a godly wife in Proverbs 31 applies to everyone.
This summer we're preaching Proverbs that people reference often. On this Father's Day, we look at Solomon's wisdom for his kids in Proverbs 4:23-27. Solomon instructs his son to guard his heart by watching three extremities: our mouths, our eyes, our feet.
This summer we're preaching Proverbs that people reference often. This week we look at Proverbs 22:6 in light of the biblical household. Then we explore three habits of households that are living into Proverbs 22:6.
This summer we're preaching Proverbs that people reference often. This week we look at Proverbs 1:1-7 and explore the essence of Biblical wisdom.
The Apostles' Creed ends with, "I believe in the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting." 1 Corinthians 15 gives us a future hope and a present encouragement. Future hope: Jesus rose to a resurrected body so we will rise to a resurrected body.
Present encouragement: Jesus crucified our sin in his mortal body on the cross.
The Apostles' Creed says, "I believe in the holy catholic church." Why do we say this when we aren't Catholic?
The Apostles' Creed reads, "He ascended into heaven." With all the focus on Jesus' incarnation, crucifixion, and resurrection, His ascension is often an afterthought. Why do we need an ascended Jesus?
What does it mean when the Apostles' Creed reads, "He descended into hell?" Did Jesus really go to hell? Where did Jesus go when he died? What should we be thinking about when we recite this line of the creed?
The Apostles' Creed affirms that we believe in one God who exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. At Jesus' baptism we see each member of the Trinity. God becomes all the more personal when we are invited to become participants in the Godhead.
Scripture reading: Mark 1:9-11
We're starting a new series on the Apostles' Creed. The creed begins with the words "I believe." What are we doing when we say the words "I believe?"
Scripture reading: Acts 16:25-34
Coinciding with Lent, we are preaching through Holy Week. On Friday, Jesus is arrested, tried, and crucified.
Scripture Reading: John 20:11-18
At the open tomb, Mary mistakes Jesus for the gardener? We like to ask, "How could Mary mistake the very one she's seeking for the gardener?" But this is the wrong question. The right question is, "Why would John include this detail?"
Coinciding with Lent, we are preaching through Holy Week. On Friday, Jesus is arrested, tried, and crucified.
Scripture Reading: Luke 23:35-43
On Friday, Jesus pays the ultimate price and is crucified on a cross. Looking closer at this King who dies reveals three juxtapositions:
1. Jesus does not rely on his strength to save himself, instead he obeys his Father.
2. Jesus does not deliver himself when he could have, instead he remains in the suffering until death.
3. One of the thieves crucified with Jesus scoffs, while the other thief sees Jesus' death as the way to life.
Is the cross foolishness, or is it the power to save?
Coinciding with Lent, we are preaching through Holy Week. After riding into Jerusalem on Sunday, Jesus returns to the city on Monday to cleanse the temple.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:36-46
After the Last Supper on Thursday, Jesus and his disciples head to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prays in anguish before going to the cross the next day. In Gethsemane we see: 1. Jesus' Humanness 2. Jesus' Faithfulness 3. Our Unfaithfulness.
Coinciding with Lent, we are preaching through Holy Week. On Tuesday, Jesus prophesies about his second coming on the Mount of Olives.
Scripture Reading: Mark 13:1-4, 24-26
Using the temple as an image for his prophesy, Jesus teaches about when he will come back someday. Jesus' second coming means that we are to have vigilance for his return, and we are to take comfort that he is returning.
Coinciding with Lent, we are preaching through Holy Week. After riding into Jerusalem on Sunday, Jesus returns to the city on Monday to cleanse the temple.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 21:12-17
Jesus cleanses the temple and receives contrasting reactions from the religious leaders and from the children. The religious leaders are angry while the children sing his praises. Like the children who sang Jesus' praises, we are to have a childlike faith.
Coinciding with Lent, we are preaching through Holy Week. Today we begin with Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.
Scripture Reading: Luke 19:36-40
Are you worshipping Jesus for the King he is, or are you praising your construction of what a king ought to be?
This is the last week of our series on Jude. In verse 24, Jude closes his letter comforting us that it is God who keeps us from falling. Verse 24 gives us three questions to ask ourselves to determine that we are being Kept from falling.
- Do I long to meet Jesus?
- Do I crave freedom from sin?
- Do I have the joy of the Lord?
This is the second week of our series on Jude. Knowing that an internal enemy is far more dangerous than an external enemy, Jude verses 3 and 4 instruct us to watch out for false teachers in the church. Jesus' half-brother then gives us two benchmarks for spotting false teachers:
1. What is the teacher's sexual ethic?
2. What is taught about the lordship of Christ?
Kept is a three week series on the short book of Jude. Jude verse 1 and verse 21 reveal that those whom God keeps in Christ are those who keep themselves in Christ.
We keep ourselves in Christ by:
1. Building each other up in your most holy faith (Jude 20)
2. Praying in the power of the Holy Spirit (Jude 20)
3. Awaiting the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ (Jude 21)
For Advent 2022, we are surveying the names of Jesus. The name "Messiah" means "Anointed One." Today we trace God's anointed ones through the narrative of scripture.
For Advent 2022, we are surveying the names of Jesus. Today we look at the name "Everlasting Father" in Isaiah 9:6. We look at three characteristics of a good father: 1. A good father is present 2. A good father is engaged 3. A good father loves. Our everlasting father is all of these.
For Advent 2022, we are surveying the names of Jesus. Today we're back to Isaiah 9:6 where the coming king is named "Prince of Peace." The peace brought on by the Prince of Peace is unique for three reasons: 1. It's Total 2. It's Eternal 3. It's Paradoxical.
For Advent 2022, we are surveying the names of Jesus. Today we dig into the name "Immanuel" from Isaiah 7:14. We discover that Immanuel means "God With Us" which guarantees protection, salvation, and restoration.
For Advent 2022, we are surveying the names of Jesus. Today we dig into the name "Wonderful Counselor" from Isaiah 9:6.
In Titus 2:12, Paul instructs Titus to live in the “evil world” of Paul and Titus’ day. The truth of Christ made for godly living in the evil world of The Roman Empire. So how can the truth of Christ instruct us into godly living in the evil world of 2022?
In Titus 3:1-7 Paul gives both an answer and a framework of how Christians are to relate to governments, even if the governments are an extension of the evil world that we live in.
In Titus 2:12, Paul instructs Titus to live in the “evil world” of Paul and Titus’ day. The truth of Christ made for godly living in the evil world of The Roman Empire. So how can the truth of Christ instruct us into godly living in the evil world of 2022?
Today we look at the passage that inspired the series, Titus 2:11-14. How can we live in an evil world? Paul tells us to look beyond this evil world to when Jesus returns.
In Titus 2:12, Paul instructs Titus to live in the “evil world” of Paul and Titus’ day. The truth of Christ made for godly living in the evil world of The Roman Empire. So how can the truth of Christ instruct us into godly living in the evil world of 2022?
In Titus 1:1, Paul calls himself a “slave” of Christ. You’re either a slave of sin or a slave of Christ so we must cling to our Master Jesus.
How do we follow Jesus? Habits of a Disciple surveys 5 ways for disciples to live out our faith.
This week we examine the fourth habit: disciples of Jesus learn Jesus. Disciples of Jesus sit at Jesus feet ready to learn. In learning Jesus, we become like Jesus. In becoming like Jesus, our behavior is transformed into the law of Jesus.
How do we follow Jesus? Habits of a Disciple surveys 5 ways for disciples to live out our faith.
This week we see that not everyone is an evangelist, but everyone is evangelistic. How can we evangelistically point people to Jesus? We live questionable lives.
How do we follow Jesus? Habits of a Disciple surveys 5 ways for disciples to live out our faith.
This week we examine the first habit: disciples of Jesus bless others. There are three simple ways to bless someone: 1. Gifts 2. Words of Affirmation 3. Acts of Kindness
It’s a Sunday School Summer where we look at classic Bible Stories you may have learned in Sunday School.
This week we look at King Solomon asking God for wisdom early in his reign as king. What is wisdom and how can we grow wise?
It’s a Sunday School Summer where we look at classic Bible Stories you may have learned in Sunday School.
This week we examine a classic story, David verses Goliath. But, even though we know this story well, how do we interpret and apply this to our lives faithfully?
It’s a Sunday School Summer where we look at classic Bible Stories you may have learned in Sunday School.
This week we look at Jacob’s defrauding of Esau. God made the promise to Jacob before he was born. Yet Jacob defrauded and manipulated to get the outcome he wanted. We learn that what God plans, happens. What will our role be in that plan?
It’s a Sunday School Summer where we look at classic Bible Stories you may have learned in Sunday School.
This week we enter into the difficulty of Abraham being commanded by God to sacrifice his son. Abraham passed the test of faith by taking God’s point of view. We can learn from Abraham’s example that, when tests of faith come our way, we need to take God’s point of view.
It’s a Sunday School Summer where we look at classic Bible Stories you may have learned in Sunday School.
This week we look at three reasons why the Tower of Babel was a bad thing. The sin of pride animated the Tower of Babel and pride still lurks in our hearts today. How can we root our pride in our lives?
It’s a Sunday School Summer where we look at classic Bible Stories you may have learned in Sunday School.
This week we see how the flood is a de-creation event that stands in contrast to the creation events of Genesis 1-2.
It’s a Sunday School Summer where we look at classic Bible Stories you may have learned in Sunday School.
This week we pick up where we left off exploring creation as a functional home story. What is the impact on us when we read Genesis as a function home story?
Exodus is not about leadership lessons from Moses. Exodus is not about moral lessons from Israel. Exodus is about fellowship with God.
This week we see that God’s glory is: 1. Transcendent 2. Terrifying 3. Transforming. In the same way that Moses reflected that he had been with God, what or who are you reflecting?
Scripture Reading: Exodus 32:1-8
Exodus is not about leadership lessons from Moses. Exodus is not about moral lessons from Israel. Exodus is about fellowship with God.
Today we look at Israel’s idolatry by making 4 observations about the golden calf debacle.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 4:21
Exodus is not about leadership lessons from Moses. Exodus is not about moral lessons from Israel. Exodus is about fellowship with God.
Several times in Exodus we read that “God hardened Pharaoh’s heart.” Was Pharaoh unfairly treated by God? Did Pharaoh even have a choice in whether to let Israel go or not? We’ll explore these questions in today’s message
Scripture Reading: Exodus 5:1-8, 19-21
Exodus is not about leadership lessons from Moses. Exodus is not about moral lessons from Israel. Exodus is about fellowship with God.
Moses was obedient to God to appear before Pharaoh with the message to let Yaweh’s people go. But even though Moses was obedient, things got worse for Moses and Aaron! What do we do when we’re obedient to God, but things get worse? Exodus chapter 6 holds the answers.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 3:1-6Exodus is not about leadership lessons from Moses. Exodus is not about moral lessons from Israel. Exodus is about fellowship with God.
Who appeared to Moses in the burning bush? That’s what this episode is all about. .
Scripture Reading: Exodus 3:13-15
Exodus is not about leadership lessons from Moses. Exodus is not about moral lessons from Israel. Exodus is about fellowship with God.
In Exodus we first learn God’s personal name! In this episode, we drill down into the meaning of God’s personal name.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 24:9-11
Exodus is not about leadership lessons from Moses. Exodus is not about moral lessons from Israel. Exodus is about fellowship with God.
This week we trace the biblical narrative of presence with God and people specifically surrounding meals from Genesis 1 to the covenant celebration meal on Mount Sinai in Exodus 24. This obscure meal holds the key to understanding the book of Exodus.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 3:10-15
Exodus is not about leadership lessons from Moses. Exodus is not about moral lessons from Israel. Exodus is about fellowship with God.
In Exodus we first learn God’s personal name!
Scripture Reading: Matthew 10:11-15
As we head into the new year, it’s time to remind ourselves why we exist and what matters most.
In week 6, we look at how Jesus’ person of peace method for making disciples applies to us.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 10:11-15
As we head into the new year, it’s time to remind ourselves why we exist and what matters most.
In week 5, we see how Jesus uses the Person of Peace method for making disciples.
Scripture Reading: Luke 9:1-2, Luke 10:17-20
As we head into the new year, it’s time to remind ourselves why we exist and what matters most.
In week 4, we continue diagramming how a disciple of Jesus, needs the power of Jesus.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 2:19-23, Matthew 13:53-55
As we head into the new year, it’s time to remind ourselves why we exist and what matters most.
In week 2, we discover that a disciple becomes a copy of Jesus.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:18-20
As we head into the new year, it’s time to remind ourselves why we exist and what matters most.
In week 1, we get really specific about the mission of the church. We distinguish between the Great Commission and the Greatest Commandment. If we’re doing the Great Commission, then the Greatest Commandment will follow.
Scripture Reading: John 1:14
This Advent we are taking a deep dive into John 1:14 and what he means by “the Word.”
In week 3, we pick up where we left off in week 1 as we dive into The Prophetic Word personified and The Written Word personified.
Scripture Reading: John 1:14
This Advent we are taking a deep dive into John 1:14 and what he means by “the Word.”
In week 1, we dive into The Creative Word personified and The Vocal Word personified.
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:36-41
This fall we are looking into what we believe as people in the Reformed theological tradition.
In week 9, we learn that baptism is a cleansing and a commissioning. We are to live out our baptism every day repenting of our sins and making disciples.
Scripture Reading: Colossians 2:11-12
This fall we are looking into what we believe as people in the Reformed theological tradition.
In week 8, we look at the connection between circumcision in the Old Testament and baptism in the New Testament.
Scripture Reading: Mark 14:22-26
This fall we are looking into what we believe as people in the Reformed theological tradition.
In week 7 we survey different views of the Lord’s Supper including the Reformed position. Pastor Bill concludes by coaching 3 things to be thinking about when we come to the Lord’s table.
Scripture Reading: Romans 1:16-17
This fall we are looking into what we believe as people in the Reformed theological tradition.
In week 6 we see how Luther’s Tower Experience led him to understand salvation by faith alone for the very first time in his life. We demonstrate true faith by apprenticing ourselves to Jesus.
Scripture Reading: Romans 8:29
This fall we are looking into what we believe as people in the Reformed theological tradition.
In week 5 we attribute salvation to God’s sovereignty. Salvation is a work that belongs to God and he deserves the glory and merit.
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 66:1, Psalm 115:3
This fall we are looking into what we believe as people in the Reformed theological tradition.
In week 4 we boil Reformed Theology down to the phrase: High sovereignty of God. What does God’s absolute sovereignty mean for us?
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 8:3, Matthew 4:4
This fall we are looking into what we believe as people in the Reformed theological tradition.
In week 3 we look at Jan Hus and Martin Luther whose stand for Biblical authority sewed the seeds for our doctrine: Sola Scriptura (scripture alone).
Scripture Reading: Romans 3:21-22
This fall we are looking into what we believe as people in the Reformed theological tradition.
In week 2, we look at Martin Luther’s life who left a life of religious rituals to enter into a life of relationship with Jesus.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 32:1-6
This fall we are looking into what we believe as people in the Reformed theological tradition.
In week 1, we learn that theology is God-centered as opposed to religion which is human-centered.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 3
This summer we’re looking at the book of Psalms.
Psalm 3 finds David asking for God’s protection while on the run from his son Absalom.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 8
This summer we’re looking at the book of Psalms.
Psalm 8 finds David praising God for his unexpected ways.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:18-20
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Scripture Reading: John 6:61-69
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
A Mother's Day Problem, Promise, Prayer
Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 1:9-11, 20
What does Hannah, Samuel's mother teach us about biblical motherhood?
Series: Sent
Episode 13. Insert Disk #2 of Multiplication Program
Scripture Reading: Genesis 1:28, Acts 6:7, Revelation 7:9-10
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode 12. Outsourcing Math to Your Disciple
Scripture Reading: Mark 3:13-15
This week's episode uses lots of visuals you can find the video message here: https://youtu.be/sNSCZSDc34c
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode 11. How I Got Into Fast Food Marketing
Scripture Reading: 2 Timothy 2:1-2
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode 10. Living Room Concerts are the Best
Scripture Reading: Luke 4:33-41
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Reading Body Language Part 2
Series: Sent
Episode Episode 9. Reading Body Language Part 2
Scripture Reading: Luke 4:38-41
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode Episode 8. Reading Body Language Part 1
Scripture Reading: Luke 10:5-7
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode Episode 7. Fishing: for Sport, for Income, for People
Scripture Reading: Luke 5:1-11
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode 6. The Divine Pyramid Scheme
Scripture Reading: John 17:20-23
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode 5. Audiophiles Know the Value of Good Source Material
Scripture Reading: Luke 6:12-19
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode 3. Saying “Baa” in the Face of Danger
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 46:9-10, Matthew 10:16-18, Matthew 28:18-20
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode 2. Why God Doesn’t Need Sports Almanacs Part 2
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 46:9-10, Matthew 10:16-18, Matthew 28:18-20
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Sent
Episode 1. Why God Doesn’t Need Sports Almanacs Part 2
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 46:9-10, Matthew 10:16-18
What's God's mission for his people in 2021? Why do we exist as Christ's church? What's our purpose in this world?
Series: Unexpected Hope
Episode 4. Why I'm Not an Optimist
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 9:1-7
2020 Advent Series
When the people of God were at their lowest, He sent the greatest hope into the world in a way nobody expected - a baby boy born in a manger.
Series: Unexpected Hope
Episode 3. Why I'm Not an Optimist
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 9:1-7
2020 Advent Series
When the people of God were at their lowest, He sent the greatest hope into the world in a way nobody expected - a baby boy born in a manger.
Series: Unexpected Hope
Episode 2. How a Small Town Girl Led to a Small Town Boy
Scripture Reading: Micah 5:2
2020 Advent Series
When the people of God were at their lowest, He sent the greatest hope into the world in a way nobody expected - a baby boy born in a manger.
Series: Unexpected Hope
Episode 1. We Need a Hero
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 59:20
2020 Advent Series
When the people of God were at their lowest, He sent the greatest hope into the world in a way nobody expected - a baby boy born in a manger.
Episode 9. We Are Repenting People
Scripture Reading: Acts 20:21, Acts 19:1-7
What if we had no prior knowledge of church and only had the Bible? If all we had was the Bible what would church look like?
Episode 8. We Are People of the Promise
Scripture Reading: Acts 3:22-26, 13:32-33
What if we had no prior knowledge of church and only had the Bible? If all we had was the Bible what would church look like?
Episode 7. We Are Fighting People
Scripture Reading: Acts 16:16-23
What if we had no prior knowledge of church and only had the Bible? If all we had was the Bible what would church look like?
Episode 6. We Are Gathering People
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:44-47, 18:1-8
What if we had no prior knowledge of church and only had the Bible? If all we had was the Bible what would church look like?
Series: We Are
Episode 5. We Are Despised People
Scripture Reading: Acts 17:1-9
What if we had no prior knowledge of church and only had the Bible? If all we had was the Bible what would church look like?
Series: We Are
Episode 4. We Are People of the Table
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42, 46; Acts 20:7-12
What if we had no prior knowledge of church and only had the Bible? If all we had was the Bible what would church look like?
Series: We Are
Episode 3. We Are People on Mission
Scripture Reading: Acts 1:8, 8:4-8, 12, 26-40
What if we had no prior knowledge of church and only had the Bible? If all we had was the Bible what would church look like?
Series: We Are
Episode 2. We Are Spirit People
Scripture Reading: Acts 1:8, 9:17-31
What if we had no prior knowledge of church and only had the Bible? If all we had was the Bible what would church look like?
Series: We Are
Episode 1. We Are Jesus People
Scripture Reading: Acts 22:3-10
What if we had no prior knowledge of church and only had the Bible? If all we had was the Bible what would church look like?
This is week 7 of a series called Bumper Sticker Belief. We are scrutinizing cultural mantras through the lens of biblical truth. This week we continue looking at the mantra "Black Lives Matter."
Watch the video message here:https://youtu.be/stRN4KYqnoE
This is week 6 of a series called Bumper Sticker Belief. We are scrutinizing cultural mantras through the lens of biblical truth. This week we continue looking at the mantra "Black Lives Matter."
Watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/psetOJG_p8E
This is week 5 of a series called Bumper Sticker Belief. We are scrutinizing cultural mantras through the lens of biblical truth. This week we continue looking at the mantra "Black Lives Matter."
Watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/KbU4TodDEQQ
This is week 4 of a series called Bumper Sticker Belief. We are scrutinizing cultural mantras through the lens of biblical truth. This week we continue looking at the mantra "Black Lives Matter."
Watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/y352RroM-mw
This is week 3 of a series called Bumper Sticker Belief. We are scrutinizing cultural mantras through the lens of biblical truth. This week we begin looking at the mantra "Black Lives Matter."
Watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/OCLN47ymDOo
This is week 2 of a series called Bumper Sticker Belief. We are scrutinizing cultural mantras through the lens of biblical truth. This week we finish looking at the phrase, "love is love."
Watch the video message here:
This message was preached after the elders at Grace 242 gave their 90 day lease termination notice to Mequon Nature Preserve.
Message for Sunday service: 7/5/20
Scripture reading: Genensis 12:1-4, Hebrews 11:8-10
Watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/nl8DOjHydDE
This is week 1 of a new series called Bumper Sticker Belief. We are scrutinizing cultural mantras through the lens of biblical truth. This week we begin looking at the phrase, "love is love."
Watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/e2NIG7SGVfM
This message covers Lamentations chapter 3. Jeremiah was a representative sufferer when his city burned down and we as the church are representative sufferers as our country burns down. As we suffer our nation crumbling, how do we get through each day? Jeremiah answers this question in Lamentations 3.
You can watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/OV2vhsGu9Xw
This message covers Lamentations chapter 5. Jeremiah asks us where our hope is? As Jerusalem burns down in Jeremiah's day and as our country burns down here in 2020, where is our hope?
You can watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/H7kraAf6QvY
This message covers Lamentations chapter 4. Jeremiah teaches us how to work through the grief by naming our pain. Details matter as we work through our pain.
You can watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/qTJDKztwoKI
This message covers Lamentations chapter 2. Looking at God's judgment over Jerusalem in Lamentations 2 makes us wonder, is Covid-19 God's judgment? Does this pandemic mean God is angry at me?
You can watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/5ActW5ZsnIo
Today begins a 5 week series in the book of Lamentations. This message covers Lamentations chapter 1. We follow the prophet Jeremiah as he mournfully tours the ruined City of Jerusalem.
You can watch the video message here: https://youtu.be/glKISZgPhd4
As we look to come out of quarantine, several "camps" are emerging in the culture. People's responses are growing all the more evident. How can we have a biblical response to the continued quarantine? This is part 2 of a three part message.
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:13-17, Matthew 22:15-22
The video of this message is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/6meA9288NAA
As we look to come out of quarantine, several "camps" are emerging in the culture. People's responses are growing all the more evident. How can we have a biblical response to the continued quarantine? This is part 2 of a three part message.
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:13-17
The video of this message is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/x-VVRiQRNfA
As we look to come out of quarantine, several "camps" are emerging in the culture. People's responses are growing all the more evident. How can we have a biblical response to the continued quarantine? This is part 1 of a two part message.
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:13-17
The video of this message is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/0yuQDc5B3cw
Has the length of this shutdown got you down? Are you sick of isolating yourself and staying home? What will it take to get us through this crisis? The author of Hebrews tells us.
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 12:1-3
The video of this message is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/I9GVu3o9zeE
This is the Resurrection Sunday message amidst the Coronavirus crisis. Jesus gives us hope through trials because he conquered his trials by rising from the dead.
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-7
The video of this message is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/DAN0qTJ23Yg
This is the Maundy Thursday message amidst the Coronavirus crisis. We explore how Jesus is the Passover Lamb who gives us the example of a servant.
Scripture Reading: John 13:1-15
The video of this message is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/Og1ss_Ka6ss
Grace 242 has transitioned to house churches for the Covid-19 crisis. This is Pastor's Bill's third message to the house churches. This week we look at Jesus as he weeps in the middle of his triumphal entry.
Scripture Reading: Luke 9:51, Luke 19:28-44
The video of this message is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/o6-yfO59PkQ
Grace 242 has transitioned to house churches for the Covid-19 crisis. This is Pastor's Bill's second message to the house churches. This week we examine Sabbath as we're forced to put our lives on hold during this crisis.
Scripture Reading: Genesis 2:1-3, Leviticus 25:1-5, 20-22
The video of this message is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/7f7TfWr6hPg
Grace 242 has transitioned to house churches for the Covid-19 crisis. This is Pastor's Bill's first message to the house churches.
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 41:1-10
The video of this message is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/e6ubgw-JlwI
"Of the small animals that scurry along the ground, these are unclean for you: the mole rat, the rat, large lizards of all kinds" - Leviticus 11:29 "Do not mate two different kinds of animals. Do not plant your field with two different kinds of seed. Do not wear clothing woven from two different kinds of thread." - Leviticus 19:19. These two verses reveal the obscurity and puzzling nature of Leviticus. This Lent, we'll be walking through the Bible's most difficult book.
This week we look at the decontamination offering of Leviticus 4 and 5.
"Of the small animals that scurry along the ground, these are unclean for you: the mole rat, the rat, large lizards of all kinds" - Leviticus 11:29 "Do not mate two different kinds of animals. Do not plant your field with two different kinds of seed. Do not wear clothing woven from two different kinds of thread." - Leviticus 19:19. These two verses reveal the obscurity and puzzling nature of Leviticus. This Lent, we'll be walking through the Bible's most difficult book.
This week we look at the purpose of the book of Leviticus and explore the key concept of holiness.
Organic Vision is a brief, two week series focusing on two themes that God has been drawing out of us as a community. This series covers two "big picture" themes that we are being called to as the church.
Theme 2: Gathering: Luke 4:38-40, Luke 10:3-7
Organic Vision is a brief, two week series focusing on two themes that God has been drawing out of us as a community. This series covers two "big picture" themes that we are being called to as the church.
Theme 1: Discipleship: Mark 6:1-3, Luke 5:27-29
Four pastors in an ECO friendship are spending the next four weeks visiting each other's pulpits. Hear four different voices remind us that we're on mission to replicate disciples of Jesus. This series includes:
Rev. Jason Brannon from Church of Christ Presbyterian
Rev. Brian Jacobson from First Presbyterian Oostburg
Rev. Steve Sherrill from Palos Community Church
Rev. Bill Ver Velde from Grace 242
Today Bill Ver Velde from Grace 242 preaches from Mark 1:16-34.
Four pastors in an ECO friendship are spending the next four weeks visiting each other's pulpits. Hear four different voices remind us that we're on mission to replicate disciples of Jesus. This series includes:
Rev. Jason Brannon from Church of Christ Presbyterian
Rev. Brian Jacobson from First Presbyterian Oostburg
Rev. Steve Sherrill from Palos Community Church
Rev. Bill Ver Velde from Grace 242
Today Brian Jacobson from First Presbyterian Oostburg preaches from 1 Peter 3:13-17.
Four pastors in an ECO friendship are spending the next four weeks visiting each other's pulpits. Hear four different voices remind us that we're on mission to replicate disciples of Jesus. This series includes:
Rev. Jason Brannon from Church of Christ Presbyterian
Rev. Brian Jacobson from First Presbyterian Oostburg
Rev. Steve Sherrill from Palos Community Church
Rev. Bill Ver Velde from Grace 242
Today Jason Brannon from Church of Christ Presbyterian preaches from Luke 4:14-21.
Four pastors in an ECO friendship are spending the next four weeks visiting each other's pulpits. Hear four different voices remind us that we're on mission to replicate disciples of Jesus. This series includes:
Rev. Jason Brannon from Church of Christ Presbyterian
Rev. Brian Jacobson from First Presbyterian Oostburg
Rev. Steve Sherrill from Palos Community Church
Rev. Bill Ver Velde from Grace 242
Today Steve Sherrill from Palos Community Church preaches from Acts 17:16-31.
Two sides of the same coin emerge in this oft-ignored book: 1. Judgment over evil and 2. Comfort for God's people.
It’s a quiet night in the fields for the dregs of society. These lowlifes who couldn’t get a better job sleepily tend their flocks of sheep. All of that is quickly forgotten when the sky explodes with a heavenly messenger bringing Good News that the Messiah is born! What can we learn from these homeless outcasts? How can we be shepherds responding to the Good News? This is “Hear the Good News…”
Hear the Good News about Jesus who is our Good Shepherd.
"Hear the Good News" is an Advent collaboration series between Pastor Brian Jacobson at First Presbyterian Oostburg and Pastor Bill Ver Velde at Grace 242.
It’s a quiet night in the fields for the dregs of society. These lowlifes who couldn’t get a better job sleepily tend their flocks of sheep. All of that is quickly forgotten when the sky explodes with a heavenly messenger bringing Good News that the Messiah is born! What can we learn from these homeless outcasts? How can we be shepherds responding to the Good News? This is “Hear the Good News…”
The shepherds heard the angel's message and looked into what they'd heard. Following Jesus isn't about blind faith. God invites us to investigate.
"Hear the Good News" is an Advent collaboration series between Pastor Brian Jacobson at First Presbyterian Oostburg and Pastor Bill Ver Velde at Grace 242. Watch Pastor Brian's parallel message here: https://vimeo.com/381194177
It’s a quiet night in the fields for the dregs of society. These lowlifes who couldn’t get a better job sleepily tend their flocks of sheep. All of that is quickly forgotten when the sky explodes with a heavenly messenger bringing Good News that the Messiah is born! What can we learn from these homeless outcasts? How can we be shepherds responding to the Good News? This is “Hear the Good News…”
The shepherds heard the angel's message and looked into what they'd heard. Following Jesus isn't about blind faith. God invites us to investigate.
"Hear the Good News" is an Advent collaboration series between Pastor Brian Jacobson at First Presbyterian Oostburg and Pastor Bill Ver Velde at Grace 242. Watch Pastor Brian's parallel message here: https://vimeo.com/377087446
It’s a quiet night in the fields for the dregs of society. These lowlifes who couldn’t get a better job sleepily tend their flocks of sheep. All of that is quickly forgotten when the sky explodes with a heavenly messenger bringing Good News that the Messiah is born! What can we learn from these homeless outcasts? How can we be shepherds responding to the Good News? This is “Hear the Good News…”
We live like Chernobyl, but God wants us to live like shepherds. We have urgency about all the wrong things. The shepherds had urgency about Jesus.
"Hear the Good News" is an Advent collaboration series between Pastor Brian Jacobson at First Presbyterian Oostburg and Pastor Bill Ver Velde at Grace 242. Watch Pastor Bill's parallel message here: https://vimeo.com/378590832
Bill and Bekah discuss how to be filled with the Spirit on the Grace 242 Podcast.
Ephesians 3:16-19, Ephesians 5:18-20
- Indewlt verses Filled
- Filled with the Force verses Filled with a Person
- Practical Suggestions for Being Filled
Prayer of Examen: https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/jesuit-a-z/terms-e/daily-examen
He’s been called “the shy member of the Trinity.” He’s often referred to as an “it.” Some have called him a “force.” But He’s none of these. He is God living in us and working through us!
3 Dimensions to Romans 8:14-27
1. Past Dimension
2. Present Dimension
3. Future Dimension
He’s been called “the shy member of the Trinity.” He’s often referred to as an “it.” Some have called him a “force.” But He’s none of these. He is God living in us and working through us!
3 Scandalous Moves from Romans 8:17
1. From Slaves to Children
2. From Children to Heirs
3. From Heirs to Co-Heirs
He’s been called “the shy member of the Trinity.” He’s often referred to as an “it.” Some have called him a “force.” But He’s none of these. He is God living in us and working through us!
He’s been called “the shy member of the Trinity.” He’s often referred to as an “it.” Some have called him a “force.” But He’s none of these. He is God living in us and working through us!
He’s been called “the shy member of the Trinity.” He’s often referred to as an “it.” Some have called him a “force.” But He’s none of these. He is God living in us and working through us!
Three realities of the Holy Spirit
1. Gifts are given by God
2. Gifts are given to all believers
3. Gifts are given to build up the church
He’s been called “the shy member of the Trinity.” He’s often referred to as an “it.” Some have called him a “force.” But He’s none of these. He is God living in us and working through us!
Why the difference between the biblical promises of the Holy Spirit and our lived experience? - Acts 1:8, Ephesians 2:19-22
1. We Don't Know Him
2. We Don't Desire Him
3. We Don't Require Him
He’s been called “the shy member of the Trinity.” He’s often referred to as an “it.” Some have called him a “force.” But He’s none of these. He is God living in us and working through us!
He’s been called “the shy member of the Trinity.” He’s often referred to as an “it.” Some have called him a “force.” But He’s none of these. He is God living in us and working through us!
You are a temple of the Holy Spirit! - 1 Corinthians 6:19
He’s been called “the shy member of the Trinity.” He’s often referred to as an “it.” Some have called him a “force.” But He’s none of these. He is God living in us and working through us!
The same Spirit that rose Jesus from the dead, lives in believers! If this is the case, why don't we live like it?
Owning a house in the suburbs with a white picket fence. Two cars in the garage, two kids in the living room playing with two pets. A raise every year for hard work and retirement at 65. This is the dream of America. But is this God’s will for his people? Maybe it’s time to begin Destroying the American Dream.
Owning a house in the suburbs with a white picket fence. Two cars in the garage, two kids in the living room playing with two pets. A raise every year for hard work and retirement at 65. This is the dream of America. But is this God’s will for his people? Maybe it’s time to begin Destroying the American Dream.
Owning a house in the suburbs with a white picket fence. Two cars in the garage, two kids in the living room playing with two pets. A raise every year for hard work and retirement at 65. This is the dream of America. But is this God’s will for his people? Maybe it’s time to begin Destroying the American Dream.
This is the recording from Steve Rippl's celebration of life service held at Mequon Nature Preserve on Saturday August 10th.
Owning a house in the suburbs with a white picket fence. Two cars in the garage, two kids in the living room playing with two pets. A raise every year for hard work and retirement at 65. This is the dream of America. But is this God’s will for his people? Maybe it’s time to begin Destroying the American Dream.
Owning a house in the suburbs with a white picket fence. Two cars in the garage, two kids in the living room playing with two pets. A raise every year for hard work and retirement at 65. This is the dream of America. But is this God’s will for his people? Maybe it’s time to begin Destroying the American Dream.
Owning a house in the suburbs with a white picket fence. Two cars in the garage, two kids in the living room playing with two pets. A raise every year for hard work and retirement at 65. This is the dream of America. But is this God’s will for his people? Maybe it’s time to begin Destroying the American Dream.
Look around. This is a different United States. Churches are emptying. Christians are labeled "hateful, bigots." The Bible is scoffed at as antiquated and oppressive. Christianity is increasingly marginalized out of the public square. This is not the USA your parents grew up in. This is a different home than what we knew growing up. This is So Far From Home.
Look around. This is a different United States. Churches are emptying. Christians are labeled "hateful, bigots." The Bible is scoffed at as antiquated and oppressive. Christianity is increasingly marginalized out of the public square. This is not the USA your parents grew up in. This is a different home than what we knew growing up. This is So Far From Home.
Look around. This is a different United States. Churches are emptying. Christians are labeled "hateful, bigots." The Bible is scoffed at as antiquated and oppressive. Christianity is increasingly marginalized out of the public square. This is not the USA your parents grew up in. This is a different home than what we knew growing up. This is So Far From Home.
Look around. This is a different United States. Churches are emptying. Christians are labeled "hateful, bigots." The Bible is scoffed at as antiquated and oppressive. Christianity is increasingly marginalized out of the public square. This is not the USA your parents grew up in. This is a different home than what we knew growing up. This is So Far From Home.
Look around. This is a different United States. Churches are emptying. Christians are labeled "hateful, bigots." The Bible is scoffed at as antiquated and oppressive. Christianity is increasingly marginalized out of the public square. This is not the USA your parents grew up in. This is a different home than what we knew growing up. This is So Far From Home.
Look around. This is a different United States. Churches are emptying. Christians are labeled "hateful, bigots." The Bible is scoffed at as antiquated and oppressive. Christianity is increasingly marginalized out of the public square. This is not the USA your parents grew up in. This is a different home than what we knew growing up. This is So Far From Home.
Look around. This is a different United States. Churches are emptying. Christians are labeled "hateful, bigots." The Bible is scoffed at as antiquated and oppressive. Christianity is increasingly marginalized out of the public square. This is not the USA your parents grew up in. This is a different home than what we knew growing up. This is So Far From Home.
Look around. This is a different United States. Churches are emptying. Christians are labeled "hateful, bigots." The Bible is scoffed at as antiquated and oppressive. Christianity is increasingly marginalized out of the public square. This is not the USA your parents grew up in. This is a different home than what we knew growing up. This is So Far From Home.
Jesus is the perfect High Priest unlike all the high priests of the Old Testament who had preceded Him. Hear why Jesus is the perfect High Priest from Hebrews 7:23-28 and Hebrews 8:1-2.
Hebrews 1:13-14; Hebrews 1:4-8
Trigger warning, Bible jargon ahead:
He's greater than the angels. He's a better Moses who leads us into promised rest. He's a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek. He's a sacrifice once and for all. Who's this guy and what does all this mean? This is Hebrews.
Hebrews 1:1-3; Hebrews 11:1-2, 13, 39-40
Trigger warning, Bible jargon ahead:
He's greater than the angels. He's a better Moses who leads us into promised rest. He's a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek. He's a sacrifice once and for all. Who's this guy and what does all this mean? This is Hebrews.
“My church has four services to accommodate my busy schedule.” “My church has Starbucks coffee.” “My church’s pastor preaches messages that really help me.” “My church has an incredible worship band.” “My church is exactly what I want in a church.” But church isn’t about what WE want, it’s about what HE wants. What does God want for His church in 2019? Welcome to Less is More.
“My church has four services to accommodate my busy schedule.” “My church has Starbucks coffee.” “My church’s pastor preaches messages that really help me.” “My church has an incredible worship band.” “My church is exactly what I want in a church.” But church isn’t about what WE want, it’s about what HE wants. What does God want for His church in 2019? Welcome to Less is More.
“My church has four services to accommodate my busy schedule.” “My church has Starbucks coffee.” “My church’s pastor preaches messages that really help me.” “My church has an incredible worship band.” “My church is exactly what I want in a church.” But church isn’t about what WE want, it’s about what HE wants. What does God want for His church in 2019? Welcome to Less is More.
“My church has four services to accommodate my busy schedule.” “My church has Starbucks coffee.” “My church’s pastor preaches messages that really help me.” “My church has an incredible worship band.” “My church is exactly what I want in a church.” But church isn’t about what WE want, it’s about what HE wants. What does God want for His church in 2019? Welcome to Less is More.
“My church has four services to accommodate my busy schedule.” “My church has Starbucks coffee.” “My church’s pastor preaches messages that really help me.” “My church has an incredible worship band.” “My church is exactly what I want in a church.” But church isn’t about what WE want, it’s about what HE wants. What does God want for His church in 2019? Welcome to Less is More.
“My church has four services to accommodate my busy schedule.” “My church has Starbucks coffee.” “My church’s pastor preaches messages that really help me.” “My church has an incredible worship band.” “My church is exactly what I want in a church.” But church isn’t about what WE want, it’s about what HE wants. What does God want for His church in 2019? Welcome to Less is More.
A king whose parents are peasants, not royalty. A king born in a stable, not a palace. His crib an animal feeding trough, not a bassinet. His clothing strips of cloth, not royal robes. This is no ordinary king. This is an upside down king bringing an upside down kingdom. This is Upside Down Christmas.
A king whose parents are peasants, not royalty. A king born in a stable, not a palace. His crib an animal feeding trough, not a bassinet. His clothing strips of cloth, not royal robes. This is no ordinary king. This is an upside down king bringing an upside down kingdom. This is Upside Down Christmas.
A king whose parents are peasants, not royalty. A king born in a stable, not a palace. His crib an animal feeding trough, not a bassinet. His clothing strips of cloth, not royal robes. This is no ordinary king. This is an upside down king bringing an upside down kingdom. This is Upside Down Christmas.
A king whose parents are peasants, not royalty. A king born in a stable, not a palace. His crib an animal feeding trough, not a bassinet. His clothing strips of cloth, not royal robes. This is no ordinary king. This is an upside down king bringing an upside down kingdom. This is Upside Down Christmas.
A king whose parents are peasants, not royalty. A king born in a stable, not a palace. His crib an animal feeding trough, not a bassinet. His clothing strips of cloth, not royal robes. This is no ordinary king. This is an upside down king bringing an upside down kingdom. This is Upside Down Christmas.
We all want to go to Heaven and have eternal life, but is Heaven where our focus should be? We can have eternal life in Heaven through the death and resurrection of Jesus, but do we even know who Jesus is.
The question is not, how do I get to heaven? The question is, do I know Jesus?
We've all heard one of these. Maybe we've even said one of these. We often want to give encouragement and go to our faith for those encouraging words.
In the series God Never Said, we'll be looking at sayings that we've heard, or even said that sound like they are grounded in scripture but actually are not.
We've all heard one of these. Maybe we've even said one of these. We often want to give encouragement and go to our faith for those encouraging words.
In the series God Never Said, we'll be looking at sayings that we've heard, or even said that sound like they are grounded in scripture but actually are not.
We've all heard one of these. Maybe we've even said one of these. We often want to give encouragement and go to our faith for those encouraging words.
In the series God Never Said, we'll be looking at sayings that we've heard, or even said that sound like they are grounded in scripture but actually are not.