Fellowship Christian Reformed Church: Recent Episodes
Fellowship Christian Reformed Church
1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
2 He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. 3 And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 18:1-5
11/23/25
14 “Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 15 To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag,[a] each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. 17 So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.
19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’
21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
22 “The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’
23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
24 “Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’
26 “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.
28 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. 29 For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 30 And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ - Scripture Reference: Matthew 25:14-30
11/16/25
27 Some of the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to Jesus with a question. 28 “Teacher,” they said, “Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. 29 Now there were seven brothers. The first one married a woman and died childless. 30 The second 31 and then the third married her, and in the same way the seven died, leaving no children. 32 Finally, the woman died too. 33 Now then, at the resurrection whose wife will she be, since the seven were married to her?”
34 Jesus replied, “The people of this age marry and are given in marriage. 35 But those who are considered worthy of taking part in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage, 36 and they can no longer die; for they are like the angels. They are God’s children, since they are children of the resurrection. 37 But in the account of the burning bush, even Moses showed that the dead rise, for he calls the Lord ‘the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. 38 He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.”
39 Some of the teachers of the law responded, “Well said, teacher!” 40 And no one dared to ask him any more questions.
Scripture Reference: Luke 20: 27-40
11/9/25
"You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." (Psalm 32:7)
Pastor Mike Wissink
Scripture Reference: Luke 19:1-10
11/2/2025
"How lovely is your dwelling place, LORD Almighty! 2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. 3 Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young—a place near your altar, LORD Almighty, my King and my God. 4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. 5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage. 6 As they pass through the Valley of Baka, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. 7 They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion." ~ Psalm 84:1-7
Scripture Reference: Psalm 84
10/26/25
"I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from?My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.." (Psalm 121:1)
Scripture Reference: James 2:14-26
10/19/2025
17 By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered Isaac, and the one who received the promises was ready to offer his one and only son, 18 with reference to whom it was said, “In Isaac your descendants will be named,” 19 having reasoned that God was able even to raise him from the dead, from which he received him back also as a symbol." (Hebrews 11:17-19)
Scripture Reference: Genesis 22:1-19
10/12/25
"Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:3-4)
Scripture Reference: Genesis 18:16-33
10/5/25
Psalm 811 Sing for joy to God our strength;shout aloud to the God of Jacob!2 Begin the music, strike the timbrel,play the melodious harp and lyre.
3 Sound the ram’s horn at the New Moon,and when the moon is full, on the day of our festival;4 this is a decree for Israel,an ordinance of the God of Jacob.5 When God went out against Egypt,he established it as a statute for Joseph.
Scripture Reference: Genesis 18:1-15
9/28/25
"Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD, you his servants; praise the name of the LORD. Let the name of the LORD be praised, both now and forevermore." (Psalm 113:1-2)
Scripture Reference: Genesis 16:1-16
9/21/25
"Have mercy on me, O God,according to your unfailing love;according to your great compassionblot out my transgressions.2 Wash away all my iniquityand cleanse me from my sin." (Psalm 51:1-2)
Scripture Reference: Genesis 15:1-21
9/14/25
"You have searched me, LORD, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down;you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, LORD, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain." (Psalm 139:1-6)
We come together to call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised!
Pastor Bob Bierenga
Scripture Reference: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
9/7/25
Psalm 93
1 The Lord reigns, he is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength; indeed, the world is established, firm and secure.2 Your throne was established long ago; you are from all eternity.
3 The seas have lifted up, Lord, the seas have lifted up their voice; the seas have lifted up their pounding waves.4 Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea— the Lord on high is mighty.
5 Your statutes, Lord, stand firm; holiness adorns your house for endless days.
Scripture References: Genesis 12:10 - 13:4
8/31/25
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits— who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the Pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord works vindication and justice for all who are oppressed. He made known his ways to Moses, his acts to the people of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love." (Psalm 103:1-8)
Scripture References: Genesis 12:1-9
8/24/25
"Rise up, O God, judge the earth; for all the nations belong to you!" (Psalm 82:8)
We come together to call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised!
Scripture References: Isaiah 1:1, 10-20
8/17/25
We come together to “call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised” (Psalm 18:3)
Pastor Russ Ooms
Scripture References: Revelation 19:1-10
8/10/25
"O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.." (Psalm 107:1).
Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 8:1-15
8/3/25
“In you, O Lord, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me and save me. Be to me a rock of refuge, a strong fortress, to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and cruel. For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. Upon you I have leaned from my birth; it was you who took me from my mother’s womb. My praise is continually of you.” – Psalm 71:1-6 (NRSV)
Second Reading: Jeremiah 13:1-11, Ephesians 13-14
2/9/25
“In you, O Lord, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me and save me. Be to me a rock of refuge, a strong fortress, to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and cruel. For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. Upon you I have leaned from my birth; it was you who took me from my mother’s womb. My praise is continually of you.” Psalm 71:1-6 (NRSV)
Scripture: Jeremiah 1:1-19
2/2/25
1The heavens declare the glory of God;the skies proclaim the work of his hands.2Day after day they pour forth speech;night after night they reveal knowledge.3They have no speech, they use no words;no sound is heard from them.4Yet their voice[b] goes out into all the earth,their words to the ends of the world.In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun.5It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,like a champion rejoicing to run his course.6It rises at one end of the heavensand makes its circuit to the other;nothing is deprived of its warmth. (Psalm 19)
Scripture Reference: Psalm 19
1/26/25
“Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your judgments are like the great deep; you save humans and animals alike, O Lord. How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. O continue your steadfast love to those who know you, and your salvation to the upright of heart!” (Psalm 5-10)
Sanctity of Human Life Sunday – Scripture and the constant witness of the Church teach that human life is created in the image and likeness of God. The value of life, therefore, does not depend on law or personal preference. Rather, it depends on the purpose of God at creation, and His continuing love for human creatures. So great is this love, that He sent His Son to become human, to live as an embryo and become born, to live among us and suffer, to die and resurrect for our hope and glory. Sanctity of Human Life Sunday is today, the Sunday closest to the anniversary of Roe v. Wade. President Ronald Reagan first set the day aside in 1984 to give thanks for the gift of life, and to reaffirm our commitment to the dignity of every human being and the sanctity of each human life.
Scripture Reference: John 2:1-12
1/19/25
“May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!” (Psalm 29:11)
Welcome to worship!
Scripture Reference: Isaiah 43:1-7
1/12/25
“Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.” (Isaiah 60:1))
Welcome to worship!
Scripture Reference: Matthew 2:1-18; Ephesians 3:1-12
Epiphany is the season of the church year extending from January 6 until Ash Wednesday. The word “epiphany” means an appearance or a manifestation, especially of a Deity. The Christian Church uses the word Epiphany to celebrate the appearance of Christ to the Gentiles. When the Christ Child was presented in the temple, the aged Simeon predicted that Jesus would be “a light to lighten the Gentiles.” This prophecy received its first fulfillment in the coming of the Magi.
The Chi Rho on the large banner refers to Christ as the “Son of Righteousness”. As the sun is the source of light and life in a physical sense, so Jesus is the light and life of men spiritually. The Chi Rho is a sacred monogram formed from the first two letters of the Greek word for Christ. The banner symbolizes the spread of the Gospel to the four corners of the earth. This is appropriate because during Epiphany the church emphasizes missions and bringing the light of the gospel to those in spiritual darkness.
Our Church’s Vision Statement:Fellowship Church is called by God to grow committed disciples into disciplemakers.
1/5/25
One thing I ask of the LORD, and this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and seek Him in his holy temple.” (Psalm 27)
Welcome to worship!
Scripture Reference: Malachi 3:1-4, 2 Peter 3:1-18
12/8/24
“To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies exult over me. Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame; let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long. Be mindful of your mercy, O Lord, and of your steadfast love, for they have been from of old. Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for your goodness’ sake, O Lord! Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way. All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his decrees.!” – (Psalm 25:1-10)
Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 33:14-16; Luke 21:25-38
12/1/24
We welcome all on this Thanksgiving Day as we join with our fellow citizens in expressing gratitude to God. Let us be mindful that every good and perfect gift we have has come from the hand of God. “O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever!” – (Psalm 118:1)
Scripture Reference: Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-10; James 2:14-17
11/28/2024
“The Lord is king, he is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed, he is girded with strength.He has established the world; it shall never be moved; your throne is established from of old; you are from everlasting.” – Psalm 93:1-2
Today is Christ the King Sunday where we focus our worship on the cosmic character of Christ’s reign over the world. It is a proclamation to all that everything in creation and culture must submit to Christ. It is an invitation to actively and joyfully submit to His rule. Christ the King is the last Sunday of the season of Pentecost and of the church year. This day completes the Christian journey through the life of Jesus Christ on earth and in heaven which began with the preparation for the birth of Jesus in Advent.
King Jesus is victorious over sin, death, and the power of the Devil. By His death, resurrection, and ascension, Jesus won the war against evil.
On Christ the King Sunday, Christians recognize and worship Christ as King of heaven and earth for all time without challenge and without end.
Come let us worship Christ the King!
Scripture Reference: Mark 10:32-45
11/24/2024
The Birth of Samuel
1 There was a certain man from Ramathaim, a Zuphite from the hill country of Ephraim, whose name was Elkanah son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite. 2 He had two wives; one was called Hannah and the other Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none.
3 Year after year this man went up from his town to worship and sacrifice to the Lord Almighty at Shiloh, where Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were priests of the Lord. 4 Whenever the day came for Elkanah to sacrifice, he would give portions of the meat to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters. 5 But to Hannah he gave a double portion because he loved her, and the Lord had closed her womb. 6 Because the Lord had closed Hannah’s womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her. 7 This went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the Lord, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat. 8 Her husband Elkanah would say to her, “Hannah, why are you weeping? Why don’t you eat? Why are you downhearted? Don’t I mean more to you than ten sons?”
9 Once when they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh, Hannah stood up. Now Eli the priest was sitting on his chair by the doorpost of the Lord’s house. 10 In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. 11 And she made a vow, saying, “Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.”
12 As she kept on praying to the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. 13 Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk 14 and said to her, “How long are you going to stay drunk? Put away your wine.”
15 “Not so, my lord,” Hannah replied, “I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the Lord. 16 Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief.”
17 Eli answered, “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him.”
18 She said, “May your servant find favor in your eyes.” Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast.
19 Early the next morning they arose and worshiped before the Lord and then went back to their home at Ramah. Elkanah made love to his wife Hannah, and the Lord remembered her. 20 So in the course of time Hannah became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, “Because I asked the Lord for him.”
1 Samuel 1:1-20
11/17/24
Elijah and the Widow at Zarephath
7 Some time later the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the land. 8 Then the word of the Lord came to him: 9 “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food.” 10 So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, “Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?” 11 As she was going to get it, he called, “And bring me, please, a piece of bread.”
12 “As surely as the Lord your God lives,” she replied, “I don’t have any bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little olive oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it—and die.”
13 Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. 14 For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land.’”
15 She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. 16 For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah.
17 Some time later the son of the woman who owned the house became ill. He grew worse and worse, and finally stopped breathing. 18 She said to Elijah, “What do you have against me, man of God? Did you come to remind me of my sin and kill my son?”
19 “Give me your son,” Elijah replied. He took him from her arms, carried him to the upper room where he was staying, and laid him on his bed. 20 Then he cried out to the Lord, “Lord my God, have you brought tragedy even on this widow I am staying with, by causing her son to die?” 21 Then he stretched himself out on the boy three times and cried out to the Lord, “Lord my God, let this boy’s life return to him!”
22 The Lord heard Elijah’s cry, and the boy’s life returned to him, and he lived. 23 Elijah picked up the child and carried him down from the room into the house. He gave him to his mother and said, “Look, your son is alive!”
24 Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the Lord from your mouth is the truth.”
11/10/24
Genesis 40:1-23
Some time later, the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt offended their master, the king of Egypt. 2 Pharaoh was angry with his two officials, the chief cupbearer and the chief baker, 3 and put them in custody in the house of the captain of the guard, in the same prison where Joseph was confined. 4 The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, and he attended them.
After they had been in custody for some time, 5 each of the two men—the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt, who were being held in prison—had a dream the same night, and each dream had a meaning of its own.
6 When Joseph came to them the next morning, he saw that they were dejected. 7 So he asked Pharaoh’s officials who were in custody with him in his master’s house, “Why do you look so sad today?”
8 “We both had dreams,” they answered, “but there is no one to interpret them.”
Then Joseph said to them, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.”
9 So the chief cupbearer told Joseph his dream. He said to him, “In my dream I saw a vine in front of me, 10 and on the vine were three branches. As soon as it budded, it blossomed, and its clusters ripened into grapes. 11 Pharaoh’s cup was in my hand, and I took the grapes, squeezed them into Pharaoh’s cup and put the cup in his hand.”
12 “This is what it means,” Joseph said to him. “The three branches are three days. 13 Within three days Pharaoh will lift up your head and restore you to your position, and you will put Pharaoh’s cup in his hand, just as you used to do when you were his cupbearer. 14 But when all goes well with you, remember me and show me kindness; mention me to Pharaoh and get me out of this prison. 15 I was forcibly carried off from the land of the Hebrews, and even here I have done nothing to deserve being put in a dungeon.”
16 When the chief baker saw that Joseph had given a favorable interpretation, he said to Joseph, “I too had a dream: On my head were three baskets of bread. 17 In the top basket were all kinds of baked goods for Pharaoh, but the birds were eating them out of the basket on my head.”
18 “This is what it means,” Joseph said. “The three baskets are three days. 19 Within three days Pharaoh will lift off your head and impale your body on a pole. And the birds will eat away your flesh.”
20 Now the third day was Pharaoh’s birthday, and he gave a feast for all his officials. He lifted up the heads of the chief cupbearer and the chief baker in the presence of his officials: 21 He restored the chief cupbearer to his position, so that he once again put the cup into Pharaoh’s hand— 22 but he impaled the chief baker, just as Joseph had said to them in his interpretation.
23 The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him.
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%2040%3A1-23&version=NIV
10/6/24
Genesis 39:1-23
39 Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. Potiphar, an Egyptian who was one of Pharaoh’s officials, the captain of the guard, bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him there.
2 The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. 3 When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, 4 Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned. 5 From the time he put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the Lord blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph. The blessing of the Lord was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field. 6 So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate.
Now Joseph was well-built and handsome, 7 and after a while his master’s wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me!”
8 But he refused. “With me in charge,” he told her, “my master does not concern himself with anything in the house; everything he owns he has entrusted to my care. 9 No one is greater in this house than I am. My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” 10 And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be with her.
11 One day he went into the house to attend to his duties, and none of the household servants was inside. 12 She caught him by his cloak and said, “Come to bed with me!” But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house.
13 When she saw that he had left his cloak in her hand and had run out of the house, 14 she called her household servants. “Look,” she said to them, “this Hebrew has been brought to us to make sport of us! He came in here to sleep with me, but I screamed. 15 When he heard me scream for help, he left his cloak beside me and ran out of the house.”
16 She kept his cloak beside her until his master came home. 17 Then she told him this story: “That Hebrew slave you brought us came to me to make sport of me. 18 But as soon as I screamed for help, he left his cloak beside me and ran out of the house.”
19 When his master heard the story his wife told him, saying, “This is how your slave treated me,” he burned with anger. 20 Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined.
But while Joseph was there in the prison, 21 the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. 22 So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. 23 The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.
“O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, those he redeemed from trouble and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south..” (Psalm 107:1-3)
Scripture Reference: Genesis 37:1-36
We come together to call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised.
Scripture Reference: Acts 19: 23-41
9/1/24
“How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, indeed it faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God..” (Psalm 84:1-2)
Scripture Reference: Acts 18: 1-18
8/25/24
I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. (Psalm 34:1-3)
Scripture Reference: Acts 17:1-15
8/11/24
We come together to “call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised” (Psalm 18:3).
Scripture Reference: Acts 16:16-40
8/4/24
We welcome Pastor Ken back to the pulpit today as he returns from a restful and successful sabbatical!
Scripture Reference: Acts 16:6-15
7/28/24
We come together to “call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised” (Psalm 18:3).
Scripture Reference: Matthew 8:14-17
7/21/24
We welcome Guest Pastor Joshua Amaezechi to our pulpit today! Joshua is the president of LEMA Institute and Lead Chaplain of the Forgotten Man Ministries at the Kalamazoo County Jail.
Scripture Reference: Mark 1:1-8
7/14/24
Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ
What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2 By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3 Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. 6 For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— 7 because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.
We welcome Campus Pastor Mike Wissink to our pulpit today!
Scripture Reference: Romans 6:1-7
7/7/24
“O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, those he redeemed from trouble and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south..” (Psalm 107:1-3)
We welcome Guest Pastor Rev. Richard Britton III to our pulpit today!
Scripture Reference: Matthew 8:5-13
6/30/24
“It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night, to the music of the lute and the harp, to the melody of the lyre. For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy.” (Psalm 92:1-4)
We welcome Pastor Russ Ooms to our pulpit this morning. Russ has pastored in Surrey, B.C., planted a church in Cedaredge, CO and was a teaching pastor at an EV Free Church. He also teaches through Lancaster Bible College in a program that helps educate pastors in Uganda. Pastor Russ and his wife Jan are members here at Fellowship Church.
Scripture Reference: Hebrews 4:1-13
Psalm 34:4-7
4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me;he delivered me from all my fears.5 Those who look to him are radiant;their faces are never covered with shame.6 This poor man called, and the Lord heard him;he saved him out of all his troubles.7 The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him,and he delivers them.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 34:4-7
We come together to “call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised” (Psalm 18:3) All are welcomed to this service of worship and praise.
We welcome campus pastor Mike Wissink as he leads us in worship today.
Scripture Reference: Acts 1:1-5, 2:1-13
6/2/24
John 20: 19-31
19 On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.
21 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” 22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”
24 Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!”
But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”
26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”
28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”
29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
30 Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
5/29/24 with Pastor Bob Bierenga
Matthew 8:1-4
8 When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. 2 A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.”
3 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy. 4 Then Jesus said to him, “See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.”
5/19/24 – Rev. Richard Britton III
Genesis 28:10-22
10 Jacob left Beersheba and set out for Harran. 11 When he reached a certain place, he stopped for the night because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones there, he put it under his head and lay down to sleep. 12 He had a dream in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth, with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. 13 There above it stood the Lord, and he said: “I am the Lord, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are lying. 14 Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. 15 I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
16 When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” 17 He was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven.”
18 Early the next morning Jacob took the stone he had placed under his head and set it up as a pillar and poured oil on top of it. 19 He called that place Bethel, though the city used to be called Luz.
20 Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear 21 so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the Lord will be my God 22 and this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God’s house, and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth.”
5/5/24 – Rev. Pete Byma lead in worship today
Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord, you his servants; praise the name of the Lord. Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore. From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised. Psalm 113:1-4
Eastertide – Because the good news of Easter can hardly be contained in a single day’s celebration, Easter is only the first of fifty days of Eastertide, the “Great Fifty Days” that lead up to Pentecost. This season is designed for extended celebration, for exploring the ramifications of Easter for the redemption of all creation, and for joyful Christian living. Eastertide is a sustained celebration of the Resurrection
Scripture References: Philippians 4:1-9
4/28/24
We come together to “call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised” (Psalm 18:3) All are welcomed to this service of worship and praise.
Eastertide – Because the good news of Easter can hardly be contained in a single day’s celebration, Easter is only the first of fifty days of Eastertide, the “Great Fifty Days” that lead up to Pentecost. This season is designed for extended celebration, for exploring the ramifications of Easter for the redemption of all creation, and for joyful Christian living. Eastertide is a sustained celebration of the Resurrection.
Scripture reference: Philippians 3:1-14
4/21/24
We come together to “call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised” (Psalm 18:3) All are welcomed to this service of worship and praise.
Eastertide – Because the good news of Easter can hardly be contained in a single day’s celebration, Easter is only the first of fifty days of Eastertide, the “Great Fifty Days” that lead up to Pentecost. This season is designed for extended celebration, for exploring the ramifications of Easter for the redemption of all creation, and for joyful Christian living. Eastertide is a sustained celebration of the Resurrection.
Scripture reference: Philippians 2:12-18
4/14/24
Eastertide – Because the good news of Easter can hardly be contained in a single day’s celebration, Easter is only the first of fifty days of Eastertide, the “Great Fifty Days” that lead up to Pentecost. This season is designed for extended celebration, for exploring the ramifications of Easter for the redemption of all creation, and for joyful Christian living. Eastertide is a sustained celebration of the Resurrection.
Scripture reference: Philippians 1:12-26
4/7/24
Easter! All the hopes and expectations of Christians are realized in the resurrection of Jesus Christ form the Dead making Easter the most celebrative day of the church year.
Welcome to worship today!
Scripture reference: Matthew 28:1-10 & Romans 5:1-11
3/31/24
6 What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2 By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3 Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. 6 For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with,[a] that we should no longer be slaves to sin— 7 because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.
8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9 For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. 10 The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.
11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness. 14 For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.
Lent is a season of preparation and repentance during which we anticipate Good Friday and Easter. Just as we carefully prepare for big events in our personal lives, such as a wedding or commencement, Lent invites us to make our hearts ready for remembering Jesus’ passion and celebrating Jesus’ resurrection
Scripture Reference: Romans 6:1-143/14/24
“O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.” (Psalm 107:1)
Lent is a season of preparation and repentance during which we anticipate Good Friday and Easter. Just as we carefully prepare for big events in our personal lives, such as a wedding or commencement, Lent invites us to make our hearts ready for remembering Jesus’ passion and celebrating Jesus’ resurrection
Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12
3/10/24
“O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.” (Psalm 107:1)
Lent is a season of preparation and repentance during which we anticipate Good Friday and Easter. Just as we carefully prepare for big events in our personal lives, such as a wedding or commencement, Lent invites us to make our hearts ready for remembering Jesus’ passion and celebrating Jesus’ resurrection
Scripture Reference: John 2:13:25
3/3/24
May we worship as did the psalmist, who wrote: “So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you” (Psalm 63:2-3).
Lent is a season of preparation and repentance during which we anticipate Good Friday and Easter. Just as we carefully prepare for big events in our personal lives, such as a wedding or commencement, Lent invites us to make our hearts ready for remembering Jesus’ passion and celebrating Jesus’ resurrection
Scripture Reference: Mark 8:27-9:1
2/25/24
Welcome to worship on this first Sunday of Lent. “To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust… Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for your goodness’ sake, O Lord! Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way. All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his decrees. (from Psalm 25)
Lent is a season of preparation and repentance during which we anticipate Good Friday and Easter. Just as we carefully prepare for big events in our personal lives, such as a wedding or commencement, Lent invites us to make our hearts ready for remembering Jesus’ passion and celebrating Jesus’ resurrection
Scripture Reference: Matthew 4:1-11
2/18/24
“Praise the Lord! How good it is to sing praises to our God; for he is gracious, and a song of praise is fitting. Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure. The Lord lifts up the downtrodden; he casts the wicked to the ground.” (Psalm 147:1, 5-6)
Thank you for joining us! It is a delight to gather before our Lord with reverence and praise!
Scripture Reference: Mark 1:29-45
2/4/24
We welcome Pastor Russ Ooms to our pulpit this morning. Russ has pastored in Surrey, B.C., planted a church in Cedaredge, CO, and was a teaching pastor at an EV Free Church. He also teaches through Lancaster Bible College in a program that helps educate pastors in Uganda.
Scripture References: Colossians 2: 8-15
9/10/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBmEw-F7_8M
Pastor Ken shares with us the sincere love of Christ that overcomes.
Scripture References: Romans 12:9-21
9/3/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27N8ymX_bRQ
We welcome our Campus Pastor Mike Wissink to the pulpit this morning to lead us in worship.
Scripture References: Mark 4:26-32
8/27/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQ7IfIV8C1A
Pastor Ken's message focuses our responsibilities when we come together around the table of our Lord. Partaking of the Lord's Supper is one of the most sacred moments of the Christian's life.
Scripture References: Jeremiah 31:31-34; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
8/20/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rG08gbSgu1M
"The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms." (Deut. 33:27). We extend a friendly welcome to each worshiper! It is a genuine joy to gather underneath the everlasting arms of our Lord and share in the worship of the living and loving God.
Today, Pastor Ken resumes his summer series on the book of Esther.
Scripture References: Esther 8:1-17
8/14/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtUX3H3UV54
We welcome guest Pastor Joshua Amaezechi to the pulpit today! Pastor Joshua is the President of the LEMA Institute, which equips Christian leaders in Africa for ministry. For more information on the LEMA Institute, go to www.lemainstitute.info.
Scripture References: Psalm 133
8/6/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBLQZ58G8GM
Pastor Ken continues his Summer Series on the book of Esther.
Scripture References: Esther 7:1-10
7/30/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMjBN63hJAA
Pastor Ken continues his Summer Series on the book of Esther.
Scripture References: Esther 6:1-14
7/23/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzoxIKMUl2Y
We welcome Pastor Ken back to the pulpit today as he continues his Summer Series on the book of Esther.
Scripture References: Esther 5:1-14
7/16/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhXpXfFMf5Q
We welcome Pastor Russ Ooms to our pulpit this morning. Pastor Russ has pastored in Surrey, B.C., planted a church in Cedaredge, CO, and was a teaching pastor at an EV Free Church. He also teaches through Lancaster Bible College in a program that helps educate pastors in Uganda. Pastor Russ and his wife Jan are members here at Fellowship Church.
Scripture References: Hebrews 11:32-12:3 (NASB)
7/9/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpZ7P0MUrg4
Please join us as Pastor Ken continues his summer series exploring the book of Esther. In today's passage, Mordecai brings the news of pending destruction of the Jews. Has Esther been placed in her royal position for such a time as this?
Scripture References: Esther 4:1-17
7/2/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1OeOipcGHE
Pastor Ken continues his summer series exploring the book of Esther.
Scripture References: Esther 2:19-3:15
6/25/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfGFwbhJYqU
Happy Father's Day! As a congregation, we give thanks and praise to God for the gift of fathers. May God continue to use you to reflect his love and compassion to your children as you teach them the truths and values of His Word.
Scripture References: Esther 2:1-18
6/18/23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhniX2OfIq0
Let us join with the psalmist who declares: “I will sing of the steadfast love of the LORD, forever.” (Psalm 89:1)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMj8jTNjzdg
Trinity Sunday - While every Christian worship service is a celebration of the Trinity, Trinity Sunday focuses explicitly on the mystery, power, and beauty of the triune God. Trinity Sunday, which is traditionally celebrated one week after Pentecost, marks the acknowledgment that all three persons of the Trinity exist together from eternity to eternity.
Scripture References: John 17:20-26
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkOWZuD5aM0
Pentecost - Ten days after the ascension of Christ and fifty days after his resurrection, the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples on the day of Pentecost. Pentecost symbolizes a new beginning. It celebrates the unleashing of the Holy Spirit on the world and the empowering of the church to reach the world with the gospel. In celebrating Pentecost, the church professes its confidence and security in knowing the Spirit’s power is available for its mission; and grows in awareness of the immensity of its calling to reach the world with the gospel.Scripture References: Isaiah 58:11-12; John 7:37-395/28/23 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jT05SBoVuaI
Today is Ascension Sunday - Christ's ascension means that in heaven there is one who, knowing firsthand the experience of suffering and temptation, prays for us and perfects our prayers. The ascension is a witness and guarantee of our own bodily resurrection, as well as an invitation for us to set our hearts and minds "on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God" (Col. 3:1-2) to rule over all things in heaven and throughout the universe (Eph. 1:10, 20-23). Finally, the ascension of Jesus serves as the prelude to Pentecost, when the power of the risen Christ came upon all believers through the Holy Spirit.Scripture References: Daniel 7:9-14; Luke 24:44-535/21/23 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yuRIhxvipfE
In the words of the psalmist: “Bless our God, O peoples; let the sound of his praise be heard” (Psalm 66:8). Welcome to worship.Today we will take some time to celebrate our graduates!Scripture Reference: Acts 17:16-345/14/23 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XpGfT7TFAA
In the words of the psalmist: “Bless our God, O peoples; let the sound of his praise be heard” (Psalm 66:8). Welcome to worship.GEMS Sunday: We will take some time during the service to celebrate with our GEMS and leaders and hear more about the GEMS program at our church. A special offering will be taken for GEMS headquarters in Grand Rapids which serves the ministry worldwide.Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 2:1-105/7/23 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RA7HaD1cc7g
Rejoice, for the Lord is Risen! Welcome to worship as we continue to rejoice in the good news of Christ's resurrection!Today, we welcome guest pastor Dr. Jeff Weima as he discusses a very prevalent topic today: The sanctity of sex.Thank you for joining us in worship!Scripture Reference: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-84/30/23 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=facQ6b2dVwM
Rejoice, for the Lord is Risen! Welcome to worship as we continue to rejoice in the good news of Christ's resurrection!In today's message, Pastor Ken will the difference a secure future makes as we are called to set our hope in Christ and the resurrection. Christ calls us to live a life of holiness unto the Lord, to live in holy reverence to the father, and to a heartfelt love for one another.Thank you for joining us in worship!Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 1:13-254/23/23 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_PcBFyLiyA
Because the good news of Easter can hardly be contained in a single day’s celebration, Easter is only the first of fifty days of Eastertide, the “Great Fifty Days” that lead up to Pentecost. This season is designed for extended celebration, for exploring the ramifications of Easter for the redemption of all creation, and for joyful Christian living. Eastertide is a sustained celebration of the Resurrection.Scripture Reading: John 20:19-31, I Peter 1:3-9April 16, 2023 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1lyoKwXAPM
Welcome to this Easter Sunday service!All the hopes and expectations of Christians are realized in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, making Easter the most celebrative day of the church year. Because the good news of Easter can hardly be contained in a single day’s celebration, Easter is only the first of fifty days of Eastertide, the “Great Fifty Days” that lead up to Pentecost. This season is designed for extended celebration, for exploring the ramifications of Easter for the redemption of all creation, and for joyful Christian living."A new commandment I give you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." (John 13:34)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-u_w0d85ADQ
Welcome to this Palm Sunday service! The crowds of Jerusalem welcomed the humble arrival of the King with palms and shouts of "Hosanna!" Let us honor and praise Him today with the same joyful spirit.April 2, 2023Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:24-29 and 21:1-11 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwFoQVhlRmU
We welcome Pastor Joshua Benton to bring the message this morning. Pastor Joshua will teaching about WHY Jesus died, WHY the curtain was torn, and WHY the centurion confessed.Scripture Reference: Mark 15:33-39 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-64pTTOP-g
Welcome to worship! May the joy which come from worshiping God inspire us to love God and one another, even our enemies.Pastor Ken continues his series on the Sermon on the Mount from the book of Matthew.Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-34; Hebrews 13:5-63/19/23 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFxAgHL-5A0
Advent - The great proclamation "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14) assures us that God has entered into human history through the incarnation of the Son. The season of Advent, a season of waiting, is designed to cultivate our awareness of God's actions - past, present, and future.
Welcome to worship on this first Sunday in advent. With expectation and joyous hearts, let us prepare ourselves to celebrate the coming of Christ.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 2436-51; Romans 13:11-14
https://youtu.be/BY6Omz7QQsA
"The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy." (Colossians 1:15-18)
Christ is the creator of all things and not just one of God's creatures. He is supreme. He is God incarnate (God in the flesh). In today's world that is full of the self-sufficient mindset, we're reminded that the universe is not self-sufficient or self-sustaining and neither are we not matter how much we try to pretend we are. All things are dependent upon Christ. Remember, if Christ is supreme, over all things, and able to hold all things together, then he can hold your life together, too. He can hold our sorrows and our pain. He can handle your guilt and shame. He can take care of your sins. If Christ is Lord of all, he can do this and so much more. Put your trust in Him. Praise be to the Living God!
Scripture Reference: Colossians 1:9-23
https://youtu.be/hktZDBRljVI
Pastor Ken returns this Sunday to bring us the message from the gospel of Luke.
Scripture References: Luke 21: 5-19
https://youtu.be/GEMGCMaGog0
We welcome Pastor Russ Ooms to the pulpit this morning as he shares the message from the book of Psalms and Jeremiah.
Scripture References: Psalm 1, Jeremiah 17:5-8
https://youtu.be/WS84WlC2ia4
Join us today as Pastor Ken discusses the well-known story of Zacchaeus, and how God seeks those who seek Him.
Scripture References: Luke 19: 1-10
https://youtu.be/vUAhFX8DFyU
Let us joyfully unite in the worship of our Creator and Savior, Almighty God.
Join us today as Pastor Ken shares about God's amazing grace, and how we can approach a perfect and almighty God while still being broken and sinful.
Scripture References: Luke 18: 9-14
https://youtu.be/VrOVCaQwszQ
Let us joyfully unite in the worship of our Creator and Savior, Almighty God.
Join us today as Pastor Ken shares The Parable of the Persistent Widow as a lesson to his disciples (and to us) on how we should always pray and pray with persistence.
Scripture References: Luke 18:1-8
https://youtu.be/D1iCAo-tEUE
The psalmist wrote: "I call on you, O God, for you will answer me" (Psalm 17:6). May we have that same certainty. With the assurance of God's presence, let us joyfully worship before our loving Creator. Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus Our Lord.
Today, we remember that although Christ has ascended to heaven, the Holy Spirit remains to encourage and sustain us, helping us to shine God's light in a dark and evil world. We also welcome the president of the LEMA Institute, Joshua Amaezechi, to the pulpit today!
Scripture References: Matthew 5:13-16
https://youtu.be/UEO95e5qXWE
The psalmist wrote: "I call on you, O God, for you will answer me" (Psalm 17:6). May we have that same certainty. With the assurance of God's presence, let us joyfully worship before our loving Creator. Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus Our Lord.
Paul, while imprisoned, encourages Timothy to fan into flame the gift of God, which is the Holy Spirit, which gives us power, love, and self-discipline. He reminds Timothy to not worry about him because he is convinced that he is able to guard what God has entrusted to him.
Listen today and learn how this encouragement may also help us guard the good that has been entrusted to us, with the help of the Holy Spirit.
Scripture References: 2 Timothy 1:1-14
https://youtu.be/kOvDzlj6b7M
The religious leaders were muttering and complaining that Jesus welcomes sinners and eats with them. Jesus responds by telling his disciples several parables with the understanding that the Pharisees and teachers of the law would be listening. Today's message brings Jesus' teaching to a climax as judgment and eternal destiny are brought into the picture. How we handle our money and possessions in life is very important. Are we being good stewards of what we've been given by God... Every Day?
Let the Holy Spirit of God work in all our hearts and lives so that we will foster generous and joyous lives lived in gratitude to God for all He has done for us.
May the Lord give each of us wisdom and insight as we apply these holy words to our own lives. And may generosity take on a new urgency -- every day!
Scripture References: Luke 16:19-31
https://youtu.be/unqH4r651As
Join us today as we welcome Pastor Bob Bierenga to the pulpit as he shares the message of the prodigal son from God's word.
Scripture References: Luke 15: 1-3; 11-24
https://youtu.be/xiy7jz8ZXjo
Pastor Ken Krause continues his series on the book of Numbers. As the Israelites get ready to enter the Promised Land, they experience a shift of leadership from Moses to Joshua.
Scripture References: Numbers 27:12-23
https://youtu.be/iCiv6774a1Y
Pastor Ken Krause continues his series on the book of Numbers. As the Israelites camp along the Jordan, Balak, the king of Moab summons Balaam to bring a curse on the people of Israel. Balaam learns a lesson from the Lord by way of an unsuspecting character.
Scripture References: Numbers 22:9-35
https://youtu.be/Dzjt5iGlJWw
Pastor Ken Krause continues his series on the book of Numbers. As the Israelites begin their entry into the "land of milk and honey" their grumbling cause Moses and Aaron to approach God for guidance once again.
Scripture References: Numbers 20:1-13
https://youtu.be/Jt82zzLAXzg
Join us today as Pastor Ken Krause continues his series on the book of Numbers. Will the Israelites give glory to God or will they find more reasons to grumble? Who will be brought into the land God promised? The Lord is with us! Do not be afraid!
Scripture References: Numbers 14:1-12, 20-38
https://youtu.be/llt2VkS2K9U
We welcome guest Pastor Bob Bierenga to the pulpit today!
Scripture References: Luke 10: 25-37
https://youtu.be/RNIS1NDtShk
Pastor Ken continues our summer series from the book of Numbers, focusing today on the Israelites as they are sent out by Moses to explore the landscape. What will they find? How will they react? What does it mean for us today?
Scripture References: Numbers 13:1-3, 17-33
https://youtu.be/ZQScbMP5NPw
We continue our summer series from the book of Numbers, looking at the difficulties Moses faced in the desert and how they relate to our walk today.
Scripture References: Numbers 12:1-16
https://youtu.be/udvVJQHI2jk
Today we welcome guest Pastor Bob Bierenga to the pulpit!
Scripture References: Luke 8:26-39
https://youtu.be/ACccXHwfvW4
Welcome to all who have come to worship and praise our Creator and Savior. May all of us sense the loving presence of God as we approach the throne of grace.
Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
https://youtu.be/6xDQ-XlG8dA
Welcome to all who have come to worship and praise our Creator and Savior. May all of us sense the loving presence of God as we approach the throne of grace.
Pastor Ken continues his summer series on the book of Numbers. Today's scripture focuses on the Israelites, and their complaints even in the face of God's miracles! Despite this, God continues to provide for them and take care of their needs.
Scripture References: Numbers 11:1-30
https://youtu.be/7r8b8QAh6Io
Pastor Ken continues his summer series on the book of Numbers. Today's scripture focuses on Moses leading the Israelites to Canaan, and his encouragement for his family to join him. We can use Moses' prayer as encouragement for us as we battle our enemies. "Rise up, Lord! May your enemies be scattered!"
Scripture References: Numbers 10:11-13, 29-36
https://youtu.be/nBlSxSiyoWE
"The Lord is great and worthy of our praise," said the psalmist (48:1). Therefore, let us joyously unite together as we sing, pray, listen, and learn from God's Word.
Pastor Ken returns and offers a priestly blessing, remembering the words God said to Moses, "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace."
Scripture References: Numbers 6:22-27
https://youtu.be/pYhqMq7II4c
Listen carefully! "The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic." Today, join us as guest pastor Russ Ooms encourages us to listen carefully to the voice of our father in heaven.
Scripture References: Psalm 29
Happy Father's Day! As a congregation, we give thanks and praise to God for the gift of fathers. May God continue to use you to reflect his love and compassion to your children as you teach them the truth and values of His word.
https://youtu.be/CqS5p6lIqDk
In our busy lives and crazy world, sometimes we need to take a step back and re-evaluate. Today, join us as guest pastor Russ Ooms discusses the importance of keeping God in our focus.
Scripture References: Colossians 1:15-22
https://youtu.be/U0y4-qX36k0
Today is Pentecost Sunday! Pentecost - Ten days after the ascension of Christ and fifty days after his resurrection, the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples on the day of Pentecost. Pentecost symbolizes a new beginning. It celebrates the unleashing of the Holy Spirit on the world and the empowering of the church to reach the world with the gospel. In celebrating Pentecost, the church professes its confidence and security in knowing the Spirit’s power is available for its mission; and grows in awareness of the immensity of its calling to reach
Join us today as we learn what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit for the Gospel.
Scripture References: Acts 2:1-21; Romans 8:14-17
https://youtu.be/6gTx_-GKqac
Today is Ascension Sunday! Please join us as we dwell on Christ's ascension and what it means for us still today.
Scripture Reference: Luke 24:44-53, Ephesians 1:15-23
https://youtu.be/yxVvju-Ahxw
Sometimes God closes doors we wish would be open, but He always has a greater plan for us. In our Scripture reading today, Paul is blocked by the Holy Spirit from going where he wants to go, and instead directed to where he needed to be. Praise God that He loves us enough to correct us and set us on the right path!
Scripture Reference: Acts 16:6-15
https://youtu.be/0i79JrduapU
As we see with Cornelius, just being a decent and "good" person isn't enough. We need a saving faith in Jesus. And only the Spirit of God can give that. And when the Spirit does open the hearts and minds of the people, they were obedient and were baptized. Discerning God's will, what is best for all, and what is good to us and to the Holy Spirit is difficult work - but worth the journey because through it all, God is growing his church in maturity, in health, in unity, and in faith and trust that no matter what happens Christ is always head of the church. Praise be to God!
Scripture Reference: Acts 11:1-18
https://youtu.be/Na0rKDac4Yk
In John 21, we see a very personal moment between Jesus and Peter. This scene re-affirms Peter's leadership position among the disciples but even more so, it re-affirms Jesus' love for Peter even after Peter denied him. Jesus restores, forgives, and recommissions Peter for his "what's next."
The same can happen for us as well. If we've been living in the grief and despair of the past-gone-wrong or if we've become embittered and driven as if we have to make up for something, then we are not experiencing the abundant joy that Jesus promised. But we can come to Jesus running, kayaking, hang gliding, or swimming like Peter and there in his presence we too can be forgiven, set free, re-tooled, and recommissioned for our what's next. And, we may even find joy abundant in doing so. Praise be to God!
John 21: 1-19
https://youtu.be/8I0E9PGdWEU
One would think that the death of the Messiah would be the end of it. The religious leadership and the governing Roman authorities wanted their form of peace and unity, which to them meant that everyone agrees with them and does things their way. But Easter Sunday changed everything! The resurrection of Jesus from death to life again turned the vile plans of the evildoers on their heads. Throughout the book of the Acts of the Apostles we see that the resurrection changed the disciples from being ashamed to be associated with Jesus to boldly proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah.
The book of the Acts of the Apostles has a a basic theme of the triumph of the gospel amidst and in spite of intense adversity. Over and over again, a roadblock is set up, free speech is denied, apostles jailed, disciples killed, governments make decrees, religious leadership gets in the way - and then the Holy Spirit shows up. Death is no threat to the disciples because Christ has already won the victory over death and the grave. As the apostle Paul wrote: "To live is Christ, to die is gain." That's the power of Easter - to embolden us to say the name of Jesus. He is greater than any teacher, professor, or president. Let's keep saying and praising his name!
Acts 5:27-42
https://youtu.be/O7adlok7nX4
"O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever" (Psalm 118:1).
Happy Easter! All the hopes and expectations of Christians are realized in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, making Easter the most celebrative day of the church year. Because the good news of Easter can hardly be contained in a single day’s celebration, Easter is only the first of fifty days of Eastertide, the “Great Fifty Days” that lead up to Pentecost. This season is designed for extended celebration, for exploring the ramifications of Easter for the redemption of all creation, and for joyful Christian living. Join us in celebration! Christ is risen! He has risen indeed!
Luke 24:1-12
https://youtu.be/cPOeqc44RM0
As we near the day of Easter, we celebrate and remember our Lord's entry into Jerusalem.
Scripture references: Luke 19:28-40 & Philippians 2:5-11
https://youtu.be/kwWTNQ26CA8
Jesus said, "Whoever seeks to keep his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will preserve it." Sometimes giving your all and your best is better than receiving a gift from others. So says the one who gave his life on the cross so that others may live. For the believer in Christ, death has a sweet smell mixed in with the mourning and pain. It smells like VICTORY! Because Christ has overcome death and the grave, because he is the resurrection and the life, the follower of Christ has a hope that sustains him.
Join us as we learn more about the faithfulness of God in this Lenten season as we build our anticipation and hope toward Easter morning.
Scripture references: John 12:1-11
https://youtu.be/bikWGD5GkbY
God's love is amazing! It overcomes all boundaries to transform our lives into His perfect reflection.
Join us as we learn more about the faithfulness of God in this Lenten season as we build our anticipation and hope toward Easter morning.
Scripture references: 2 Corinthians 5:11-6:2
https://youtu.be/LACq7A7DREc
Acknowledging, resisting, and fleeing temptation can be difficult. Temptation is something that rises up from within us - from within our own hearts and souls. But God is faithful! He knows what we can bear so he provides a way out.
Join us as we learn more about the faithfulness of God in this Lenten season as we build our anticipation and hope toward Easter morning.
Scripture references: 1 Corinthians 10:1-14; James 4:7-8
https://youtu.be/iEUnruv1Cg0
The season of Lent is a 40-day period of preparation before Easter. From Ash Wednesday through Holy Week, the Christian Church remembers the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is a time to be dedicated to prayer, repentance, self-examination and renewal, which ends in the celebration of the Easter resurrection.
Related verses: Luke 13:31-35 and Matthew 18:12-14
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eiqp_ykc5UM
Today we hear from God's word in Hebrews of the supremacy, the radiance, and the glory of God's son with guest Pastor Russ Ooms.
Related verses: Hebrews 1:1-3a
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvooPtCQyJs
Transfiguration Sunday - Today is the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday (the beginning of Lent). Transfiguration Sunday is traditionally designed for celebrating the transfiguration of Jesus. In this glory we see a fuller representation of Jesus' identity. Just as the transfiguration prepared Jesus for His passion and death, so our observance of His transfiguration prepares us for our Lenten journey in which we concentrate on His sufferings.
Related verses: Luke 9:28-36
https://youtu.be/9_kjSJ_GRUk
The Great Reveal of God working behind the scenes of our life can give us comfort and hope when we are going through bad times or when we are still wrestling with something that has happened to us in the past. With God all things are possible - at that includes experiencing joy once again. The comfort that is God is always with us and always able to take what someone meant for evil and turn it to good. Join us as we learn more about Joseph's "Great Reveal" from Genesis 45 and how it applies to us today.
Related verses: Genesis 45:1-28
https://youtu.be/kcCQeiHOTx4
Jesus calls Simon Peter as he calls each of us to change and help others get caught up in the net of God's goodness and abundance. The glory of God is revealed in Christ, and Jesus continues to call us to new life with him. Be overtaken by the awe of God's glory in Christ.
Related verses: Luke 6:17-26
https://youtu.be/iPEQ25UiDmI
Jesus calls Simon Peter as he calls each of us to change and help others get caught up in the net of God's goodness and abundance. The glory of God is revealed in Christ, and Jesus continues to call us to new life with him. Be overtaken by the awe of God's glory in Christ.
Related verses: Luke 5:1-11
https://youtu.be/m6yub46dpkE
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9
Related verses: Joshua 1:1-9
https://youtu.be/racMSz4uoY0
Epiphany is the season of the church year extending from January 6 until Ash Wednesday. The word “epiphany” means an appearance or a manifestation, especially of a Deity. The Christian Church uses the word Epiphany to celebrate the appearance of Christ to the Gentiles. When the Christ Child was presented in the temple, the aged Simeon predicted that Jesus would be “a light to lighten the Gentiles.” This prophecy received its first fulfillment in the coming of the magi.
Related verses: John 2:1-11
https://youtu.be/rQYZ0UB8di0
Epiphany is the season of the church year extending from January 6 until Ash Wednesday. The word “epiphany” means an appearance or a manifestation, especially of a Deity. The Christian Church uses the word Epiphany to celebrate the appearance of Christ to the Gentiles. When the Christ Child was presented in the temple, the aged Simeon predicted that Jesus would be “a light to lighten the Gentiles.” This prophecy received its first fulfillment in the coming of the magi.
Related verses: Luke 3:15-22 and Acts 8:14-17
https://youtu.be/zW9EMCNDVns
Happy New Year!
Epiphany is the season of the church year extending from January 6 until Ash Wednesday. The word “epiphany” means an appearance or a manifestation, especially of a Deity. The Christian Church uses the word Epiphany to celebrate the appearance of Christ to the Gentiles. When the Christ Child was presented in the temple, the aged Simeon predicted that Jesus would be “a light to lighten the Gentiles.” This prophecy received its first fulfillment in the coming of the magi.
Related verses: Matthew 2:1-12 & Ephesians 3:1-13
https://youtu.be/ThxeI5gk35E
Merry Christmas!
We welcome Pastor Bob Bierenga to our pulpit this morning. Join us as we hear God's word and celebrate the birth of our Savior!
Today's scripture: John 1:1-14
https://youtu.be/if4-KcMC77U
Advent - The great proclamation "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14) assures us that God has entered into human history through the incarnation of the Son. The season of Advent, a season of waiting, is designed to cultivate our awareness of God's actions - past, present, and future.
Join us as we hear God's word and are encouraged to know that those who believe are blessed.
Today's scriptures: Micah 5:2-5a/Luke 1:39-55
https://youtu.be/_ppM6sRj2c4
Advent - The great proclamation "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14) assures us that God has entered into human history through the incarnation of the Son. The season of Advent, a season of waiting, is designed to cultivate our awareness of God's actions - past, present, and future.
Join us as we hear God's word and are encouraged that he is coming to bring us home.
Today's scriptures: Zephaniah 3:14-20/Philippians 4:4-7
https://youtu.be/YyJetE_fY2s
Advent - The great proclamation "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14) assures us that God has entered into human history through the incarnation of the Son. The season of Advent, a season of waiting, is designed to cultivate our awareness of God's actions - past, present, and future.
Join us as we hear God's word and are encouraged to return to God in Advent.
Today's scriptures: Malachi 3:1-4/Luke 3:1-6
https://youtu.be/qVNcV2lO04w