Calvary: the Hill Sermons: Recent Episodes
The Pastors of Calvary: the Hill
Calvary the Hill started as a prayer meeting in a small studio apartment on Capitol Hill the summer of 2010. Since then we have met in living rooms, bars, dance studios, warehouses to worship Jesus, learn about his grace through studying the Bible, love one another and serve our neighbors. We currently meet in a 100+ year old church building on the back side of Cal Anderson Park every Sunday at 10 am and 6pm, and we also gather in smaller groups throughout the week.
If we learned the posture of Jesus' mission last week, this week we learn the power of his mission. He sets out to boldly show just who he is - the Son of Man and the Son of God - in being Lord of heaven and earth.
Coming off the mountain top where he gave the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus begins to practice what he just preached, and in doing so he shows us the posture of his mission - unequivocally toward the other of society.
As Jesus concludes his famous Sermon on the Mount, he wraps up with a series of ultimatums. His core question is, "What are you going to do with my words?"
People don't like judgmental Christians. Jesus doesn't either. He makes the case that if we can lay aside unrighteous judgmentalism, we can then take up the mantle and walk in the Golden Rule, for God's glory.
Jesus addresses anxiety head on in our passage today. As we seek to orient our lives around God and others, Jesus anticipates our "What about this?" and our "What about that?". Our anxiety creeps in and tell us that we should prioritize many things, not one.
Jesus dives into the practices of fasting and simplicity, and ultimately wants us to experience life as it was designed: simple and completely directed toward God and others.
When was the last time you really pondered the implications of these seemingly simple words? We're gonna dip our toes into the vast ocean of the Lord's Prayer.
It's not just the what of Jesus commands that are important. It's the how and the why. In our passage Jesus prescribes the spiritual discipline of secrecy, in which we "do not let our left hand know what our right hand is doing."
Last week we looked at the Greatest Commandment to love God with all of ourselves, and how our church walks in it. But what about the Second Greatest Commandment? Hear from Pastor Nick and other ministry leaders on how we walk this command out in the life of our church.
As Fall hits, we are looking at our Church rhythms. What is this church all about? Taking our cue from Jesus, we zoom out to rediscover that life is all about Love for God and others. You'll hear from Pastor Nick and several other ministry leaders.
The climax of Jesus' Old Testament precedent-busting commands is his command for Christians to love their enemies. The most beautiful part of this command is the motivation behind it. We love our enemies, because God is an enemy-loving God. We love our enemies to be close to him, and to be like him.
Jesus' show-stopping Sermon on the Mount continues with his most challenging command yet: His injunction against retaliation. As his followers, we are to illustrate God's missional heart by responding to evil, not with more evil, but with creative, surprising, and relational love.
Once again Jesus wades into a contemporary debate, this time on the making of oaths. Jesus sees through the practice as a loophole for truth-telling, and calls his disciples to a much simpler way of living: letting our Yes be a Yes, and our No be a No.
Jesus wades into a contemporary debate about the legitimacy and grounds for divorce. This is a challenging topic, and one that can feel distant from the grace of God. But what we see is that although King James' standard is high, his mercy is always standing ready.
Jesus has a high calling for us sexually. How can we possibly attain his intense standard? We both can't, and can. We can't, and therefore need his saving and empowering grace. We can with his Spirit's help.
Jesus dives into the deep end, calling out interpersonal conflict as an issue near and dear to God's heart. If we want to prioritize our vertical relationship with God, then Jesus prescribes making right our horizontal relationships as well.
Too often we get into this mindset that to have a better life, we must be a better person to please God such that he'll improve our circumstances. However, God is much more interested in simply being with us. Our Lord doesn't promise a life with no problems - he promises a life where he is always present. This is the very essence of the good news of the gospel.
The Apostle Peter makes clear that we are called to holiness, but what is it? Holiness requires three dimensions: that we act according to God's character, that we are different from the world we are part of, and that we are together as a loving community. Without all three, our view of holiness is deficient and deformed.
What was Jesus' opinion on the Old Testament? Does he stand over it? Does he sit under it? In his introduction to the Sermon on the Mount, he gives us his posture toward all of Scripture.
Jesus commissions his church to be both salt and light for the world. We are to be different from and yet exist for the world. How do we do this well?
At the outset of Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount, he paints a portrait of a citizen of his kingdom using the Beatitudes.
Jesus begins his ministry with a BANG in Galilee, the rural area north of Jerusalem, which was prophesied by Isaiah long before Jesus' arrival.
Jesus's first act as the Anointed Messiah-King is to be led by the Spirit to be tested by the Devil. Ouch. But he aces the test, and shows us more deeply who he is in the process.
Jesus, in his baptism, is commissioned as the Messiah-Savior-King of humanity. What does that show us about him, and about us?
John the Baptist was the long awaited forerunner to the Messiah. His message was "The Kingdom of Heaven has arrived. Are you going to embrace it?"
We are all obedient ... to something, but what we are obedient to really matters. Is it the narrow path that leads to life, or the wide path that many will indeed follow that leads to death?
Surprisingly, the first worshipers of Jesus in Matthew are pagan astrologers from a distant land. We learn that from the start, God has a heart for the "outsiders", and longs to draw them to Jesus.
This is the moment - when the God of the universe invades humanity. What does it look like? How does he do it? What is our part in it? We'll see that God both sovereignly steps in and yet graciously partners with us in a scary invitation to participate. Will you?
What if Christian singleness were more than a curse of loneliness for the sake of the Gospel? Discover how Jesus invited his people to consider singless for the sake of those on the margins while also experiencing life-giving connection among the family of believers.
Buried in Matthew's genealogy of Jesus we find a theology of God's sovereign mercy, justice, and faithfulness over the long haul. He has truly told, and is telling, a long story of human redemption.
Matthew, a book that concludes with a forward reach to the end of time, begins by reaching back to the beginning of the book of Genesis. According to Matthew, Jesus fulfills all the hopes and dreams of Israel, and provides the only solid hope for everyone else.
The story of Jesus on the road to Emmaus must have claim to be the finest scene Luke ever sketched. It's a story that parallels so much of what the Christian life is like; offering hope, community, and unexpected support that leads to finally seeing Jesus in the most difficult places along the road of life.
John's account of the resurrection chronicles three very different snapshots of the eyewitnesses: the grieving Mary, the fearful disciples, and the doubting Thomas. What about us? How does the resurrection impact us when we're grieving, fearful, or doubting?
On Easter Sunday, we examine Matthew's account of Jesus' resurrection. If there is enough reason to believe that it actually happened, what do we do with that information? Does it make a difference to our lives? Jesus seems to think it does.
On the cross, Jesus experienced a cosmically unprecedented reality: God the Son lost his intimacy with God the Father. In doing so, Jesus both defeated Loneliness itself, as well as provided an example for how to lament during times of loneliness.
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus' humanity is on full display as he wrestles in prayer with the reality that his appointed time on the cross is near. Overwhelmed with extreme sorrow and grief, he invites those closest to him to keep watch and pray with him, thus revealing how the Son freely chose, out of love, to be bound to human mortality for our sake. In the process, we also learn ways to support one another in times of great sorrow and grief.
In the last week of Jesus' life, he gave voice to three laments. The first was over the city of Jerusalem, and his people Israel. He lamented their rejection of him as their rightful Messiah. Jesus provides us a model for lamenting over loved ones.
Church is more than an individual affair, but rather a corporate reality. We are called to lean into these relationships in the context of our obedience to Jesus.
In his final greetings, Paul allows us a brief window into what this early church looked like and how it functioned. We can take both challenge and encouragement from this look under the hood. The church is supposed to be a beautiful mess of overlapping stories.
A clique is by definition "a group of people with shared interests who are resistant to outsiders joining their ranks." The church is not supposed to be resistant to outsiders, but oftentimes outsiders aren't even on our minds when we think of church. Paul wants us to reframe our thoughts about unbelievers, and to posture ourselves toward them.
Paul addresses slaves and masters, and doesn't dismantle the institution. What!? What is going on? Is the Bible outdated and regressive? After we deal with the elephant in the room, it turns out Paul has a lot to say about vocation and meaningful work as we live out our lives for Christ.
What does the gospel have to say about marriage and family life? Is Paul a chauvinist? Are wives supposed to submit? We are hitting all the buzzwords this week as we seek a Christian understanding of marriage and family.
The apostle Paul gets very practical as he continues to unpack what it means to be clothed in the riches of this mystery, " Christ in you, the hope of glory ", as we continue to live our lives not only as individuals but also in the community.
Paul begins a deep, practical dive into the Christian life of the Churchgoer and the Church. Since our "old self" is already shed, but not yet dead, he gives us some pointers on living our lives practically for Christ. And yes, it includes our sexuality...
Once we've grasped what we have in Jesus Christ, how practical does that get externally? And how deep does it go internally? Paul gives us a robust description of the Christian life post-conversation.
It isn't in our own creativity or strength that we conjure up vision for ourselves or our community for the upcoming year. It is in looking up, beholding our God, and receiving his invitation for us this year.
Remembering God’s faithfulness isn’t just about reflecting on all the ways he has delivered you and where things are all buttoned up. We reflect on his faithfulness even (and perhaps especially) in the areas that aren’t yet buttoned up. We reflect on his faithfulness because of the desperate circumstances we’re in today.
The in-between, uncomfortable, waiting reality of Advent is the plan. As we stare death in the face (which we Americans do not like to do), we can take great joy, peace, thanksgiving and consolation knowing that in this little baby God has prepared the antidote for death for all people who believe in him.
In the New Testament, all of God's people are called to ministry. The question then isn't, "Are you called?" Rather the question is are you listening? Are you paying attention? Like Mary, are you allowing the Advent of our Lord to disrupt your life, creating space to reflect on what He has done with fresh wonder and awe, so that you might likewise hear and respond, "Here am I, Lord."
In the midst of the height of the Roman empire, God quietly dropped into humanity in the person of Jesus Christ. But he didn't keep it quiet. He made his grand announcement to a group of lowly shepherds. And in doing so, he made clear the priorities of this new Upside Down Kingdom that we're all invited into.
As God's people, we are not called to do first, we are called to look upon what God has done. Only after beholding what God has done are we invited to do. This week we contemplate Joseph's darkest day turned into an invitation to partner with God's grand plan.
If there's one word that describes human beings, it's distracted. Paul lays out the philosophy that was plaguing the Colossian church, and it turns out it's simply a distraction turning their attention from what is truly important: the gospel of the kingdom of Christ.
So you have become a Christian? Now what? The Apostle Paul wants us to know that the identity of Jesus as Lord and his work for us on the cross is not just the beginning of the Christian life but vital to its daily walk. The gospel provides complete provisions for a faithful journey and we should accept no substitutes.
In this sermon from Pastor Wayne Taylor, we learn that the mystery from God, hidden for ages and generations, has been revealed: Jesus Christ. In Him is an inexhaustible treasure trove of all things good. So why would we feel the need to go somewhere else to scratch the itches we feel dayto day?
Like a good teacher, Paul in our text today, repeats himself with increasing clarity. He underscores a foundational truth that his readers should not move from, that this Jesus, who shed His blood on the cross, is fully God and fully human. In the language of John's gospel, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us."
Paul, in a majestic hymn, turns our attention to the glorious person of Jesus Christ as both creator and redeemer.
There is always more to experience in the Gospel of Jesus. Paul paints a tapestry of prayer that the Colossians would experience the A-to-Z of the Gospel and the growth that comes with it.
Paul's got nothing but thanksgiving to God that the Gospel reached a city he had never been to. He spends time reflecting on how wonderful the Gospel really is, and the God made it possible.
A look at the Who, What, When, Where, and Why of the book of Colossians. Should a 21st century American church care what the Apostle Paul had to say to a 1st century church that he didn't start in an insignificant city that he never visited?
Right on the heels of the greatest command to love God is the second greatest - to love our neighbor as ourselves. In many ways this is more difficult practically speaking. So practically, how does our church do this? We'll take a glance at the ministries that emphasize neighbor love.
Our number one priority as the people of God is to love Him back. That's the first and greatest commandment, according to Christ. How do we do that as a church family? This week we take a look at the wide array of opportunities to do just that, together.
In spiritual direction circles, we often talk about the distance between the head and the heart as being the "longest journey". But this, the longest journey, is essential. If we want a relationship with Jesus, beyond our head-knowledge, we must go where he goes and speak the language he speaks. We have to go to our hearts.
Unique to the Mosaic Law, Israel’s legislature provides a glimpse at the heart of the God who wrote it. Embedded in that law is a social program called the Cities of Refuge—a program of grace, compassion, and mercy.
Our culture attempts to define the good life for us: wealth, family, service, happiness, and the list goes on. What does it mean to live a good life? What constitutes the good life? According to Proverbs, the only way to the good life is through the fear of God.
Proverbs is full of practical tips and tricks for living. But what is the overarching type of life that the Proverbs wants to cultivate? One of righteousness and justice, rooted in the character, actions, and fear of God.
Fear-of-God wisdom leads to wisdom in relationships. You need other people. Proverbs teaches us that isolation leads to death; community leads to life; and wisdom leads to active participation in the right community.
Proverbs makes clear that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom," but what does it mean to fear the Lord? We see in the first few chapters of Proverbs what it looks like to "center" God in our navigation of life, and therefore acquire wisdom.
We often get much of our identity from where we're from, or where our home is. When asked the question, "Where are you from", some of us have a ready answer. As believers in Christ, as sons of the almighty God, one thing we can say for sure is that our true home is with Jesus. Over these two Sundays, we're going to dive in and explore what this might mean day to day for us now, and a bit of what we have to look forward to.
We often get much of our identity from where we're from, or where our home is. When asked the question, "Where are you from?", some of us have a ready answer. As believers in Christ, as sons of the almighty God, one thing we can say for sure is that our true home is with Jesus. Over these two Sundays, we're going to dive in and explore what this might mean day to day for us now, and a bit of what we have to look forward to.
We arrive at the climax of the Servant Songs, and we are given a detailed description of the task that the Servant would accomplish.
We read a lot about what Jesus did for us. But we don't often get a window into his inner thoughts. Over 700 years before Christ, Isaiah provides us a view behind the curtain of the character and inner life of Jesus.
Isaiah has established that Jesus is going to bring a kingdom of justice, but who will make up the citizens of that kingdom? In the second Servant Song, we see God's sights set on "bringing his salvation to the ends of the earth," creating a kingdom of both Jews and representatives from every nation on earth.
In the first of four Servant Songs, the prophet Isaiah gives us our first glimpse at the future Servant of the Lord, who will bring a kingdom of total justice to bear on the earth.
Paul signs off to he Philippian church with his typical Jesus-saturated farewell, and in turn encourages us toward becoming a Gospel Family. We do that through unity, perseverance, joy, and intimacy, in Christ.
Paul finally arrives at the thank-you part of this thank-you letter. And in true Pauline fashion, he uses it as an opportunity to coach the church through what it means to be truly content, no matter the circumstances.
God is the God of peace. Jesus promised us peace. One of the fruits of the Spirit is peace. But how do we become people full of gospel peace? Paul walks us step by step in making God's peace a daily reality in our lives.
If the church is a family, then there's bound to be conflict. What is the Christian way to handle this? Paul gives us a robust exhortation that should help us navigate the complexities of life in our sometimes dysfunctional family.
How on earth are we to live in Seattle as citizens of Heaven? How are we to rightly balance our allegiance to Jesus with our allegiance to our neighbors? Paul expertly shows us how.
For Paul, all worldviews pale in comparison with simply knowing Jesus. It is this relationship that has caused Paul to forfeit all other allegiances and avenues. For Paul, the gospel is a person named Jesus.
Paul uses his own conversion story from devout (and zealous) Jew to devout (and zealous) Christian to teach us that there are many "gospels" that vie for our attention; but for Paul (and for us) we need to keep the right gospel (the one where we "glory" in Jesus alone) front and center.
Paul provides us with a riveting story of Gospel Faithfulness in the person and story of Epaphroditus, who nearly died bringing relief to Paul in prison. In his example and story we find tips for us in how to be faithful to the gospel in the midst of the challenges we face in Seattle.
Paul has been exhorting this small church to think in a Christian way towards one another and towards life in general. Now he gives them a real-life example in one of his closest friends, Timothy. In Timothy we learn how exactly we can live a life of selflessness.
After the resurrection comes a "now what?" Paul delivers the "now what?" in no uncertain terms. If Jesus is Lord, then that means we obey him, and it shows in how we as a community move through the world. The glorious thing is that as we step forward in obedience, it turns out God is present and working in us the entire time.
We arrive at the beating heart, not just of Philippians, but of the gospel itself. We see a mini-biography of the second person of the Trinity - God from eternity past, Lord to eternity future - and right in the middle is Jesus's condescension to humanity - one of humility, obedience, and trust in the Father. It's no wonder he is now the King of kings and Lord of lords forever and ever.
We're diving back into Philippians, where Paul is encouraging his friends to have a singular focus on "the one thing." What is this thing? (The Gospel!) And what does it look like to be singularly focused on it? (Together with Love, Unity, and Humility!)
Our final Psalm of lament is a doozy. How are you supposed to pray when it feels like it's God who is against you? Heman the Ezrahite has a thing or two to teach us about desperate faith in the midst of unthinkable circumstances.
What if your sin should be the cause of your lament? David, after his twin-sins of adultery and murder, illustrates a robust lament over his sin. This can serve as a template for us when we need to lament over our own sin.
How do we lament when it's our mental health that is causing us trouble? Do the Psalms provide any recourse for us when we are depressed or anxious? The Psalmists of Israel blaze a trail that we can follow: going to God even in the midst of mental and emotional turmoil.
How do we lament when our own bodies turn on us? Whether it's disease or aging, eventually mortality catches up to every human being. This is a good reason to lament to God. The Psalmist uses his current affliction to reflect on the eternity of God, and this leads to comfort and peace since we know there is a future Kingdom awaiting us.
In our first installment learning about lament in the Psalms, we encounter enemies. How are we to navigate our lives when others are the cause of our trouble? How do the Psalms teach us to pray? And how does that square with Jesus's command to love our enemies?
Paul begins the exhortation section of his letter to the Philippians with his primary point: we need to live as citizens of the new kingdom. He will unpack this for the rest of letter, but for now he leaves us with three how-tos for being dual citizens of earth and heaven: we act in unity, without fear, and through suffering.
While Paul is giving the Philippians an update on his circumstances, he ponders the very present possibility of execution. We are given a snapshot into the inner thoughts of Paul, for whom both life and death simply means Christ. He is an example of someone who truly possesses a Hope informed by the Gospel.
Paul has chains around his wrists and his ankles, on constant surveillance by Roman soldiers. He has no personal freedom. But for some reason, he is full of joy. Why? Because he sees every personal circumstance through the lens of one question: "How is this impacting the spread of the gospel?" Paul's posture challenges our day-to-day priorities, and how we view even the little trials in our lives.
Partnership in the gospel isn't just about productivity. Partnership in the gospel leads to flourishing relationships in the family of God. Paul's affection for this partner church is tangible, and it should be the heart that we seek for one another as we partner together in the gospel.
We begin our study through Philippians where Paul's primary focus is on the gospel and its effect on the world, and on this small church. Paul loves this church dearly and exhorts it tenderly. We also examine the story behind the origin of the Philippine church in Acts 16. We discover three themes that immediately emerge: Humility in Christ, Unity in Christ, and a Gospel Priority.
Week one we laid out our mission, which is to be about what God is doing in renewing all things in Jesus Christ. Week two we laid out our vision - forming a family of Spirit-filled disciples of Jesus who are committed to Capitol Hill in truth and love. But how do we do that? That's where our values come in. At Calvary: The Hill our values are to be 1) Grounded in God's Word, 2) Attuned to God's Spirit, 3) A loving family, and 4) Passionately missional. These are the ways that we accomplish our mission and vision.
Last week we saw what Go is doing, which is to renew all things in Jesus Christ. Now we look at what we are doing. Following the Great Commission that Jesus gave to his first followers, we are forming a family of Spirit-filled disciples of Jesus Christ who are committed to Capitol Hill in truth and love. This is our vision for our church; this is what we want to see God do in us this year and beyond.
In our first installment looking at Calvary: The Hill's Mission, Vision, and Values, we align our mission with God's mission. In asking, "What is our mission?" we are also asking "What is God's mission?" God is renewing all things through his Son Jesus Christ, and we are seeking to be a church that engages in that mission with him.
Our final Installment of Advent focuses on the Love that came on Christmas. It came, and it never left. Readings brought to you by members of the Calvary: The Hill community. Merry Christmas!
We all want joy, especially around Christmas time. But do we realize that it is God who shares His joy with us? Joy is not a self-conjured reality, it is a gift that is shared with our Creator. And there is no circumstance that can steal our joy when it is founded upon Jesus.
The Advent (or coming) of Jesus provides us with many things, including an opportunity for peace with God and with neighbors. We examine the truly wonderful reality of peace that Jesus unlocks for us.
We all need hope. The season of Advent is the perfect time to fine tune our dependence on God for hope. We walk through our longing for hope, God's promise of hope, Jesus's fulfillment of hope, and our worship in response to being given this hope.
God has given us a spiritual family to fight the battles of the Christian life. It's not our chosen family, It's the family he has forged. The key to any healthy family relationship is communication, and Paul sets an incredible example of how to communicate with one another, about one another, and also how to pray God's blessings over one another.
Paul has already laid out the armor that God provides for the battles we fight. Now he exhorts us to invite God into the battle and provides the Who, What, When, and Where, and How to do that: PRAYER.
Paul commands us to stand firm in Jesus, and he gives us six how-tos in order to do that. These how-tos make up the "full armor of God" that we receive from Him. If we take up these weapons, then nothing the enemy throws at us will ultimately succeed.
Believe it or not, we have a whole army of spiritual enemies that are seeking to derail our faith in Christ. The most important part of preparing for this spiritual warfare is understanding where we get our strength. It's not in our own strength that we stand. It is, in Paul's words, "in the Lord and in the power of his might." The only way we can successfully withstand the enemy's tactics is by donning someone else's armor.
In our final installment of our Redeemed Vocation series, we look at slaves and masters. After wading through the fact that Paul assumes the reality of slavery, we find on the other side a countercultural and wonderful perspective on authority. The reality is that God is the ultimate authority, and every authority structure here on earth needs to remember that, including our employment structures.
God, in his grace and power, has offered us the opportunity to be in His redeemed family. This informs our involvement in any and every family we are involved with from now on. Pastor Richard and his wife Debbie walk us through their story of being a redeemed family, despite all their brokenness.
Paul is swept away with the profound and deeply mysterious reality that marriage itself has always been the picture of God's love for us, made perfect in how much Jesus loves his bride, the church.
Jesus has redeemed a community of disciples to live life in a new way. How does that affect our most important relationships, like in marriage? Paul splits the cultural extremes for marriage and calls for a completely new, Christ-centered, and Spirit-filled life of mutual submission and love between husbands and wives.
As we hit Day 1 of a new season at Calvary: The Hill, it's important to remember who is really in charge here. And not only remembering who's in charge, but what is he like? Can we trust him to guide us into the unknown? David's famous Psalm assures us that yes, he can, and he will.
A Jesus community by nature exists for those who are not yet its members. As the church, we are called to be a community of ambassadors of the Kingdom of God, bearing witness in both word and works.
The way Christians grow is when the people of God use the word of God in prayerful dependance on the Spirit of God for the growth of the whole body. Discipleship is that process in action.
The first thing membership means, and what Jesus has purchased through his gospel, is connection to an already-created community of love. It's the particular community of believers that Jesus has for you in this present season.
Even if we are exiles in Babylon, God is in control, life is possible and we are called to seek the welfare of our city. Whatever transition we have faced, these three things are true. We are called to lean in to whatever season we find ourselves because God is at work.
Openness to God doing a new thing doesn't come naturally. We have to learn to perceive what God is doing and trust the new work. This often requires us to surrender what God did and listen to what he wants to do now.
Throughout the scripture God's words and God's leaders have only one message to those in transition. God is with you. When all around us is in flux, God's presence is a constant that we can rely on.
We, like Paul, have been called to join God in his work of making all things new in Jesus Christ. God has given us his Spirit, and unique gifts to cultivate human flourishing in our own context, as a foretaste of what he will do completely and finally when Jesus returns.
Christians should be a people of thanks because God has done so much for us in Jesus Christ. He has invited us to know the living God, to grow by his word, and to enjoy a perfect inheritance as his children.
The Holy Spirit is present today to guide the church. What churches does he guide? Churches that prioritize Jesus. What does he guide them to do? Proclaim and embody the gospel of Jesus. What does success look like? It looks like trust, faithfulness, and joy in the midst.
The Holy Spirit has plans for each of us as individual Christians in our day-to-day lives. In participation with Him, he partners us with people we see and people we can't see. But the reality is that it is we who are partnering with Him in His mission to glorify Jesus.
God loves all people, and therefore he gives his Holy Spirit to anyone who claims the name of Jesus. It doesn't matter your background, your history, your race, your sins, your strengths, your family, or ANYTHING. What matters is that you know your need for Jesus, God's Indiscriminate gift of love for you.
In order to respond to the needs of the church today, we need to be full of the Holy Spirit and Scripture, and it turns out that the Spirit is the one who wrote Scripture.
The Holy Spirit is not a force, he is a person. He is a person of God, he has a personality, and he wants to be personal to you. He wants to empower you for his purpose to glorify Jesus.
The Holy Spirit is present amongst all who call upon Jesus. And he has a purpose: the spreading of the gospel of Jesus. This happens through prayer, persecution, and bold proclamation of the good news.
A few weeks after Jesus ascended to Heaven, the promised Holy Spirit arrived at the church in Jerusalem. In one fell swoop, he undid the curse of the Tower of Babel, and enabled the people of God to reach the world at large with the clear articulation of the gospel. He is doing the same thing today, and he is available to all who call on Jesus for salvation. He wants to empower us for his purpose, to glorify Jesus Christ.
Jesus, after resurrecting in power, and before ascending in power, promised to send the Holy Spirit to empower us in his name and for his mission. The Holy Spirit is now available to all who call on Jesus for salvation!
The author of Ecclesiastes maintains that everything done "under the sun" is meaningless. So where does that leave us? To find our meaning elsewhere. Perhaps in God's kingdom, which is not of this world. In Christ's kingdom we get to participate in what God himself is doing, and in that there is deep meaning, and much better than the kingdoms we build for ourselves.
We all want success, and we all define it differently. We also all want a full life. The problems arise when we equate the two. Jesus offers us a full life, and a success story that might look different than we expect. But it's a true life that is lived with him at the center.
God's great plan on earth is to build a Temple through his Spirit and bring everything under Jesus as head. Paul calls us here to participate in that work, knowing that what we do matters.
Paul exhorts us to walk in wisdom. Why does God care about us living wise lives? Because Jesus is king over all of life, and we should seek to glorify him will all that he has given us and every opportunity he has set before us.
Jesus referred to himself as the Light of the world. He also called his followers the light of the world, but how does that work? Paul calls us to live out our new nature in our new relationship with Jesus, extending his light into the darkness around us.
What does it look like to be a child of God? It means to walk in love, like Jesus did, and to no longer walk in other ways. To do so we need to understand our identity as God's children, be satisfied in his love, and know his truth.
What happens when we look at the Resurrection through the eyes of Doctor Luke? We get a better understanding of just how significant the Living Jesus is. God is doing something new in our world, and it changes everything.
Paul has laid out a paradigm for Christian change by putting off the old and putting on the new through the renewing of our mind. But what does that look like in life? Here, Paul gets concrete and shows us what the New life in Christ should look like, and the truths that lead us there.
The Christian walk involves both a crisis and a process. Because we have died and been raised with Christ we have new life, but we must continuously apply that new life in Christ by putting of the old, renewing our minds, and putting on the new.
We have seen that the church is to grow more like Christ, but how does that happen? By more and more becoming a community that speaks the truth in love to one another. It is the two together that grows a Christian, and the two together that grows a church.
There are certain gifts that Jesus has given that take priority in the church. This is not because they are more important, but because they are foundational. Evangelists, pastors and teachers exist to equip the body so that the whole body does the ministry and become a mature body of Christ.
God has made the church one, but we must constantly review what it is that makes us one church. Paul lists what defines the body and therefore what unifies it.
Paul begins his exhortation (based upon all the truths of his letter so far) with a call to social virtues that will sustain the new community God has formed in the church. We need to cultivate humility, gentleness and patience as a proper response to what God has done for us and what he has called us to.
Another reason we need the wilderness is because it is a place of repentance. Hosea gives us many reasons why we should repent, but at the heart of all of them is the loving God who awaits our return.
God himself is the original desert father. In the time of Israel's wilderness wandering he was at work. By learning what God does in the wilderness we can cultivate a desire to go into the wilderness ourselves knowing that God will be found there.
Paul's doxology here is central not just to Ephesians but to all of Christian life. For us to live the Christian life we must remember that it is a life of worship, dependence and relationship with Christ.
What is God doing in our lives and how does it work? We can reverse-engineer Paul's prayer and discover that we need God's help to understand God's love so that we can become more fully what we are; the temple of God.
The message of welcome is indeed surprising, but the surprise doesn’t stop it being admitted into the kingdom of God. It continues when God invites us to actually participate in a ministry welcome. He graciously give specific callings to be fulfilled through the church, by and for Christ.
The essence of the Christian message is an invitation. It is a free gift, a new identity, a twist in the plot, a windfall inheritance and a news-worthy happening. In short it is the gospel; the good news of our surprising welcome into relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Paul had been talking about what God has done; he brought us near and made us one. Now he turns to what God is doing, making a people into his temple built on the scriptures, focused on Jesus, preaching the gospel, empowered by the Spirit, to the glory of God.
The salvation brought to us in Jesus Christ is not just spiritual but social. In Jesus, true peace between divided and hostile communities is made because Jesus put the hostility to death. We are called in all our differences to be one new family in Christ.
Jesus was both the expected Messiah and the unexpected incarnation of God. At the moment of Jesus' birth, everything changed: God had become man and all would be well. Because Jesus came as God with us, we now can be with God forever.
Solomon, the son of David, ruled over a glorious kingdom. But it was temporary, and flawed. Like all the kingdoms of the earth is was a glorious contradiction. Jesus however was glorious in paradox, and is therefore worthy of being the King of Kings and Lord of Lords as the true son of David.
For a story we associate with Joseph, the narrator sure spends a lot of time on Judah. As it turns out, The author does this to push our gaze beyond Joseph to the one who would come who would be the greatest and truest example of God's providence and reconciliation.
Noah was prophesied to bring rest from the curse, but the real rest had to wait for the coming of Jesus. Although Noah was indeed a son of Adam, in him God only gave the world a new start. In Jesus, God is not only making a new world, but a new people.
How does the fact that we are saved by grace impact our daily life? Much and in every way! God has graciously given us a life of purpose and a story which He is writing for us to walk in every day.
How are we saved? What does it mean to be saved. Paul blows past our often overly simple understanding and explains that salvation is accomplished by God's kindness and is nothing less than experiencing the full depth of God's kindness forever.
The Bible's depiction of what's wrong with humanity has much in common with a lot of the assessments from other quarters. However in every case, the Christian view is worse and more desperate. None the less, because of Christ we have true hope for even death is defeated in Christ.
To live the Christian life we need to know the power available to us in Christ. This power not only raised Christ from the dead, but appointed him as the ultimate authority and will make the whole world right. Because we are in Jesus, we can experience that same power in our daily life as we live as God's temple and make his fullness manifest.
With God's help, we can find our identity through knowing God better and knowing the hope, blessings and power He has given to us. We are more than rescued, we are transformed.
Our salvation also comes with a great inheritance, not only are we God's chosen inheritance, but he, the Living God of Love, is our inheritance. We can be sure of our future because we have received the Holy Spirit.
The climactic moment in history and our own personal story is the cross of Christ. In that we find reversal, revelation and resolve and that changes our present and our future. We are no longer what we were.
To understand the story we are in we need to understand its origin and its author. Since we are in Christ our story begins before time in the heart of God. Knowing this changes how we view events both good and bad in our life, as we can trust that they are a part of the glorious story of God's grace.
Paul writes the letter of Ephesians to the Saints. What does it mean that we are saints in Christ? It means that we have entered into a new story and have a new identity. Living this out is our new purpose.
The book of Micah closes with worship. As it turns out, the center of Micah's message is not Israel's unfaithfulness but God's faithfulness, and not God's judgment but his forgiveness. Understanding this leads us to ask, as Micah did, "Who is like you Lord?"
Lament is an essential part of being a community of justice in a world of injustice. Although it is not natural to us, the discipline of lament helps us to take the reality of evil seriously, own our responsibility in its existence, and place our hope in the God who can fix things.
Here Micah makes clear that injustice isn't just wrong, its wrong headed. Using the traditional language and perspective of wisdom, Micah warns Israel that their behavior doesn't bring life but death. We also need to recognize that injustice isn't cheating to win, but a foolish loss.
Why isn't God satisfied with all of the worship of Israel that takes place at the temple? What is it that he requires? The same thing he has always required; that we would respond to all he is and all he has done for us by doing the same things. This alone is true worship.
What are the people of God supposed to be about during the interim? The mission is both one of blessing and judgment. It is simultaneously a fragrance of life and a fragrance of death. Both of these are accomplished as God publicly transforms us, changing us into witnesses of God.
What does Christmas have to do with Civil Rights? At the very Center of Micah's book and message is the announcement of the one who is to be born in Bethlehem. How does the coming of Jesus and the gospel relate to issues of Social Justice? Here we see how to think of their connection.
God makes clear that although in "that day" he will set all things right "now" will be a time of suffering, exile and difficulty. However, this is not a detour to the plan. It is the plan. If we are to embrace God's way of justice, we also will have to embrace suffering, but that suffering will be productive and lead to life.
Christianity provides us with a unique hope that fuels pursuing justice in our world. Unlike other utopian visions it leads neither to passivity nor to a pressure to make the world perfect. Instead we live out our lives as models of the world to come, walking in the ways of the Lord our God.
Power is a big component in injustice, but it's also a vital component in Justice. Micah shows us how to stand against those who abuse their power and rely on the power of God for change in the image of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.
Injustice always stems from an underlying ideology about life. The good life often fuels bad behavior. If we are to uproot injustice in our lives and world then we must reject the culture of more and better for a life of contentment in the Good Shepherd.
In the introduction to the book of Micah we see impending judgment on Israel for their Idolatry. Why is the focus on idolatry when the primary sin in the rest of the book is injustice? It's because idolatry always underlies injustice. The theological underpinning of injustice is an essential component of a Christian response.
Jesus has sent us out as sheep among wolves. This vulnerability is not coincidental but central to the mission and message of Jesus. We need to follow Jesus, the lamb that was slain, in doing good to our enemies and proclaiming the Kingdom of Peace and Reconciliation in Jesus Christ.
Jesus doesn't limit the great commission to mere evangelism, nor does he rely on cults of personality. The great commission is about Jesus alone, and everything He teaches.
All prior limitations in the lesser commissions have been removed upon Jessus' resurrection, and He sends His followers out to the ends of the earth.
Jesus Christ has been given, and deserves, all authority in heaven and on earth. Here’s the question as we emerge from this pandemic: Does Jesus have authority over our daily lives? If we give him that authority afresh, we won’t regret it. As we seek to make disciples of him, we’ll have renewed purpose, methods, and Jesus himself with us.
Maybe no gift is more misunderstood or debated than the gift of prophecy. Nonetheless Paul makes it clear that this is a great and necessary gift for the body of Christ, one that we should pray for and use for the edification of all.
The gift of tongues can be both confusing and controversial. However Paul gives the church guidance on what the gift is, what it's for, and how its best used. As always, we should desire all God has for us but also use it responsibly for its intended purpose: to build up the church in love.
How is God's Spirit made manifest in the church? Through the gifts God has given the body. For the sake of the whole church we should seek to discover and utilize our gifts, and earnestly desire the best gifts so that each part of the body does its part and the whole body grows in love.
What resources do we have available to fight against the spiritual forces at work in our lives and world? God has given us everything we need in Jesus Christ to stand against the schemes of the devil. Learning to employ them in our lives and others will lead to victory and peace.
What is spiritual warfare? How should we think about the devil and demons? What are Satan's primary tactics? We need to embrace the biblical worldview of the spiritual realm and understand the ordinary forms of spiritual warfare through temptation, deception and accusation.
One of the ways that the Christian life is supernatural is through prayer. Prayer maintains our relationship with God and puts us in touch with the God of the universe. Growing in prayer means growing in relationship with God and growing in his power an presence in our life.
Jesus identifies himself to Martha, in the midst of her mourning, as the resurrection and the life. Understanding the resurrection as present and personal changes our own difficulties, transforming them through the very life of God.
Paul makes his final push to stick with Christ and not fall for the foolishness of self-salvation. The cross of Christ has changed his perspective on the worth of all things, and when it becomes our boast it will change ours as well.
Christians are called to respond to the goodness of the gift of Christ with a life of goodness and giving. When we do so we can be confident that all that we sow to the Spirit will be productive, bearing eternal fruit.
The Christian life isn't made better with people; it's made possible. Paul here calls us to live as a new family that is filled with the spirit, committed to restoration and humble. When we do this we become the community that Jesus promised to use to bring others to his kingdom.
So Christian's are called to freedom from sin but how does that work? Paul here reminds the Galatians (and us!) that God has given us his Holy Spirit and that gives us new desires and ability to obey God and overcome the flesh. The gospel doesn't end with forgiveness, but continues on to the practical making of righteous disciples.
Jesus Christ has set us free from the law. But here in Galatians Paul calls us to the proper use of that freedom: to love and serve one another. In doing this we reflect Jesus' own love for us and the world and live as the community God desires us to be.
What does it look like to grow in Christ? Paul is adamant that it doesn't come through circumcision and the law. It is not anything in addition to Christ at all that we need for growth. Instead, we grow through faith in Christ, by the Spirit as we produce more and more love in our lives.
Why is our world simultaneously defined by deception, lies and falsehoods and at the same time a world full of people who claim that they are committed to the truth? Underlying all the deception is our human ability of self deception. If we are going to be a people of the truth, we have to confront our own hearts.
We all know the story of Jonah, but reading it closely can give us a fresh appreciation for the deep literary features that make the story compelling and even moving. Reading it rightly helps us to see ourselves in Jonah (or see Jonah in ourselves) and rediscover the God of abundant Grace.
In an age of continuous outrage and animosity. Jesus' words to his followers are convicting and fresh. We like Jesus, must leave behind hate and love even our enemies. In this way we reflect God's character, and proclaim our own salvation as the forgiven enemies of God.
Both Obadiah and Nahum focus on impending judgment for foreign nations. Although the idea of God's judgment can be unpalatable to us today, both books are presented as good news and comfort to those who have been mistreated and oppressed by those nations. The truth is, we need a just God and should rejoice in the fact that one day there will be no more injustice, Jesus has brought about his kingdom.
Freedom is not only a keyword in American politics, its also a keyword in Christianity. But how does American freedom differ from the Christian version? Christian freedom is deeper gives us the ability to be subject to every governing authority. Intrigued?
The final chapters of Amos are full of visions. Some that God relented from, some that have come to pass, and some that will one day be fulfilled. At the center of them is the plan of God that culminates in Jesus Christ, the savior not just of the Jews but of the whole world.
The first root we need to remove from Christianity is the will to power. Although coercion is a good aspect of government, it has grown primary in our political engagement and is not the way the kingdom will be brought or protected. It's time to dethrone and demythologize politics and pursue human flourishing with God's help instead.
The people of Israel in Amos' day were not just prosperous but very religious. However, Amos comes to warn them that their religion won't save them. Although they worship at the places of their forefathers, they do not worship as their forefathers did; theirs was a worship without change, without humility, without truth and therefore without hope.
What is the primary mark of being part of God's Family? Paul in his conclusion walks through the contours of the Old Testament to show the nature of God's family is the same as it has always been: through faith in the promises of God and his miraculous work.
Amos lays a trap for his audience by beginning with their closest neighbors (and biggest enemies!) before centering his sights on Israel. He calls them out for their injustice and the false religious veneer that keeps them from facing their impending fate. True, they are God's special people, but that doesn't make them untouchable, it makes them accountable.
For us to grow in our relationship in Christ, we need the help of teachers and parents in the Lord, but how can we make sure those we follow will lead us rightly? Paul here presents an example of what Christian leadership looks like and calls us to follow him as he follows Jesus.
Joel's big topic is the Day of the Lord, which he connects with the recent judgment of locust, the impending judgment of Babylon and the final deliverance of God's people. As we travel through time with him our understanding of God's character is transformed and we learn, as John does in Revelation to say "Even so, come Lord Jesus."
Because we have already been adopted to go back to the Old Testament way of relating to God is just like going back to idolatry. Although the law was God-given, it was given temporarily to a people awaiting God to work in the Messiah. Now that Jesus has come, we are no longer waiting but can enjoy our relationship with God in Jesus.
Since we as Christians are united to Christ we are the sons of God. Our status is complete and full in Christ, and we need not add to it in any way. This also means that there is no justification for division within the Church, because we are all sons.
Abraham encounters the final exam in his life-long education in faith. Called to do the unimaginable and sacrifice his son, Abraham demonstrates that his trust in God goes to the very core of his being. However, there is good reason for Abraham's faith, just as there is in our own dark nights and trials.
God's Power makes his character visible. For that to happen, God often blesses us in ways that are greater than our reason, our mistakes, and (obviously) our power. Like Abraham, we can respond to this reality through obedience.
As Abram faces the temptation of worldly wealth, he finds himself prepared because of the mysterious arrival of Melchizedek. Like Abram, God is our portion and provider so we need not be tempted by all that glitters in this world.
The blessed life for Christians looks different than the world would expect. Because we trust in God's promises we can go about our life as peacemakers and with meekness. Like Abraham, instead of choosing for ourself we can trust God's portion.
The life of faith trust that God will provide. We are always tempted to provide for ourselves, and when we do so we cut corners, take shortcuts, and hurt those close to us. A better way is to keep God in our moral calculus and know that we can obey his word, because he will keep his promises.
When the faithful God speaks his promises, the people of God place their faith in him and live faithfully in light of his words. Like Abraham we have a choice to live life based on what we see, or live life based on what God has said. Abraham discovered that God keeps his promises, and so will we.
Hosea's final chapters reach the highest point in all his major themes: the highest indictment against Israel, the highest vision of punishment, and the highest portrayal of hope. We also get one final window into the loving character of God who calls us, like Israel, wherever we are, to return to him.
A life of faith always begins with us surrendering to God’s plan. However, to do so we have to recognize that the way of faith is always an interruption to the status quo, that the way of faith means laying aside our own plans, and that the way of faith isn’t hindered by the impossible. Just like Abraham, God is still calling us to follow him in the way of faith.
Hosea's message of impending judgment ramps up to its highest level. He describes the sins of the Northern Tribes as consonant with Israel's worst historical happenings. He also points to all their false hopes which God is going to remove, one by one, culminating in the removal of Israel themselves from the land.
The way of faith is superior to the law. For starters, God’s promise predates the giving of the law, and even when it was given it was only for a temporary purpose. More importantly, the law was given not to make us righteous but show our need for a savior and point us to Christ. When we read the commands of God we must do so in a way that leads us back to what God has done for us in Jesus, encountering the gospel again and again.
Hosea begins his message proper, although still in the spirit of a scorned faithful husband. As Gomer, we see that Israel has been consistently unfaithful. We also find that their supposed freedom is just slavery, blindness and death. However God has a plan that extends past judgment, and will lead to restoration.
The law is great, but it was never meant to be the means to the blessings of God; in fact, if you aren’t good at following directions to the tee, then you don’t get blessing from the law, but cursing. Jesus in his substitutionary death and resurrection has purchased us something so much better - a piece of the blessing promised to Abraham, righteousness and God’s Spirit in us.
Hosea becomes a living prophecy as he is called to marry (and re-marry) an unfaithful wife and name his kids after the impending judgment. Nevertheless we find that after the judgment comes a new honeymoon and God proves himself to be a love greater than our sin.
From the beginning God sought a blessing for humanity: that they would live with him and be his partners and representatives. What is required to participate in that blessing? That we, like Abraham place our faith in God and his promises.
As Ezekiel concludes his final vision we find not just a new temple but a new priesthood, new cultus and a new Israel. We discover that one day, God will fulfill his promise to Israel on earth, and after that will fulfill it in heaven.
Today we live between the cross and heaven. We operate in the reality of a resurrected Christ that changed our lives, strengthens us through the trials we face, and provokes us to good works.
What is it that makes the good news so good? Here, Paul reminds Peter of all that God has done for us in Jesus Christ and shows that a return to the works of the law (or any other system of worth in our world) would be to reject the greatest gift ever given.
When Paul publicly confronts the apostle Peter, he’s not just being contentious, he is contending for the unity of the church and the true significance of the salvation made possible by Jesus. The gospel both demands a response to what Christ has done for us and calls us to challenge those who use man-made demands to deny the gospel.
An angel takes Ezekiel on a guided tour through the coming Temple. This temple remains empty until God sees to it that it is filled. This passage ends with the law of the temple being the promise that God will bring His spirit and His people into it.
Paul's meeting with the Jerusalem Apostles demonstrates the importance and shape of Christian unity. The Bible envisions a tremendous unity for those who are in Christ where differences are transcended in love. Because we are all in Christ we should pursue fellowship, cooperation and taking care of one another.
As Ezekiel continues to lay out a message of hope after the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of his people, we see that God's plan of restoration for Israel is expansive. He will resurrect and reunite the nation, and preserve them from attack as only he can do.
Paul says the Gospel is not "according to man", it does not align with man made systems of value and worth. When Paul encountered Christ it was an interruption and an intervention that made him a whole new person. When we truly encounter the gospel it does the same to us.
With the destruction of Jerusalem Ezekiel is proven to be a true prophet and turns his messages to what comes next. Whereas the book has focused on judgment, Ezekiel now begins to lay out a message of hope which culminates not just in the restoration of Israel but a veritable return to Eden.
Paul presents a severe warning about believing in other gospels (that are no gospel at all). What is it that makes the good news of Jesus Christ so unique? Here we see that when we add to the gospel we don't just dilute it, we deny it. Underneath this warning is the glorious truth of what makes the good news good.
After the long break since last we met, Pastor Justin took this first week back to review the events of Ezekiel 1-32. God has called Ezekiel to a ministry which no one will appreciate or heed, but at the fulfillment of these prophecies, no one will be able to deny that Ezekiel speaks for God. God's plan is for judgment upon Israel and Judah, but also for those who oppress Israel and Judah.
The book of Psalms closes with a work that acts as the logical follow up the every message from each of the psalms -- praising God. Pastor Andy highlights the psalm's prescription of where to worship, how to worship, why to worship, and who should worship (Psalm 150).
In this psalm, we find the writer in a time of deep despair and depression. God leads him on the surprising path of remembrance, the act of interpreting present questions/doubts through past cases to poise us for the future (Psalm 77).
In this psalm, David considers the many benefits of a relationship with God. He is bursting with a need to proclaim God's goodness and prompt others to do so as well. We see how the God of the Old Testament is as eager to save His people as Jesus in the New (Psalm 103).
Guest preacher, Pastor Mike Monjay (Calvary Wallingford) taught a powerful sermon on how the healthy processing of doubt can lead to strengthened faith (Psalm 73).
This week we look at Psalm 86 and learn how our neediness is met with complete satisfaction in Christ. When we ask God for what we need, He doesn't jump at the chance to withhold from us, but instead graciously gives good things because He is a holy Father (Psalm 86).
The biblical practice of confession involves coming to agreement with God's verdict on our actions and our nature then proclaiming accordingly. Confessing sin and sinfulness can be daunting and intimidating, but if we would just do so, we would be given access to the salvation God has prepared for sinners (Psalm 51).
It can be very uncomfortable reading David's prayers calling curses upon his enemies. Our guest speaker, Lindsay Kennedy shared a common theological belief that the psalms are the prayers of Jesus. Unlike David, Jesus is completely blameless and perfect, His judgments are righteous and He Himself is the one who takes the same curse He calls upon His enemies (Psalm 109).
As we continue our relationships with Jesus we see Him prove His trustworthiness again and again. Through examining David's psalm, we see that trusting in God is personal, prescriptive, and practical (Psalm 62).
When life isn't going perfectly, we can give thanks to God for the great things He's done in the past. Being that He's the same God today as He has always been, we can count on His love to come through and accomplish His purposes in our lives (Psalm 138).
When we find ourselves in times of deep suffering or depression, we can either turn in on ourselves or we can look to God. With God, we can enjoy a gracious level of intimacy that even includes a safe place to make agonizing cries for salvation in the midst of suffering (Psalm 88).
In this week's psalm, we reflect on how the nature of the world around us can awaken us to praise God for the works He has done. We also see how people have a history of forgetting to worship God in times of trial and difficulty, but because of God's constant goodness, we should never forget. (Psalm 95).
Today we began a new sermon series on the Psalms. In this premier sermon, we examined how the Psalms often let us into the intimate prayers of the authors revealing some of their most difficult feelings toward God and men. Pastor Nick surveyed through a large range of human emotions and reminded us that amongst the 150 works in the book, there's a Psalm for that (Psalm 1:1-6).
Fasting is one of the spiritual disciplines less practiced today. Perhaps this is because it reminds us of the Church's dark history of asceticism and penance. However, today we discussed how fasting has nothing to do with self-harm but everything to do with seeking God and serving our neighbors (Isaiah 58:1-12).
Paul calls believers in Christ to be thankful at all times. Today, we examined how thankfulness doesn't come only from pleasant circumstances, but rather because we know that God promises to use even the things He hates to accomplish that which He loves (Ephesians 5:20).
This week, we study the spiritual gift of giving. We see here that the generosity of a believer can keep money from being their idol by making a servant in their worship of God. The way that we handle our money leads our hearts, shapes our characters, and focuses our worship.(Matthew 6:19-24).
The Bible seems to suggest that God has created us with a nature inclined toward musical expression. The Bible directly commands us to worship God through song. In today's sermons we explore how singing to God ministers to our bodies, minds, and hearts (Psalms 47:6-7).
Today we explore the discipline of prayer. We see from Paul's letter to the Philippians that we should pray over our concerns, our vocations, and our passions (Philippians 4:5-7).
We have begun our study through the Spiritual disciplines. In this first installment, we learn tools for Bible Meditation. Pastor Justin shares on how we can study the Bible with the Microscope, Telescope, Telephone method (Joshua 1:8).
Mark's Gospel telling ends in a bleak cliff hanger, but the advent of the Gospel itself has only just begun (Mark 16:1-8).
When Jesus hangs on the Cross, His critics wait to see if He will be rescued by the God who claimed to be His Father. Ironically, however, it's because He's God's obedient Son that He went to the cross and died for the salvation of many (Mark 15:34-47).
When Jesus is condemned to the Cross, He may seem like the Messiah that no one asked for and no one wanted, but His character proves Him to be the Messiah that everyone needs (Mark 15:23-33).
In full Irony we see the reality of Jesus kingship as stands subject to the authority of others and endures injustices at their hand, even to the point of being mocked as a king. However because he is in full submission to God, he's not only truly free but worthy to be crowned King of all kings (Mark 15:1-22).
Jesus' trial has begun and the whole of the way, every party involved is behaving ironically. It is only Jesus who acts in a way consistent to His word. Furthermore, the enemies and disenfranchised devotees of His are still somehow living in fulfillment of His prophecies concerning them (Mark 14:53-72).
Faithfulness is most tested by difficulty. In this passage we see three examples, each unfaithful for different reasons. In contrast we see the ever-faithful one: Jesus. Mark desires not just to teach us to trust in Jesus' faithfulness instead of ours, but that we can be faithful because Jesus is.
Jesus' real power is displayed despite the circumstances of His arrest. Juxtaposed against the weakness of His disciples who can't even stay awake to the best of their abilities, Jesus is shown to have absolute power with kindness and without any trace of corruption (Mark 14:25-42).
This week in Ezekiel, God has tasked His prophet to bring a word regarding Egypt. God assures that His judgment will lead the people of Egypt to know that He is the true God. Despite this, God sends a written lament for Egypt, its fallen allies, and for Pharaoh himself.
When Jesus and His disciples celebrate the Passover, Jesus proves to be the ultimate fulfillment of the feast the Jewish people have celebrated for generations. His coming death on the Cross will seal Him as the true Passover Lamb (Mark 14:12-25).
Ezekiel's ministry of prophecy continues as God tells him a parable surrounding two women, Oholah and Oholibah, figures representing Judah and Israel respectively. Prophecies surrounding the siege of Jerusalem, and the nations of Ammon and Tyre are given to Ezekiel and in the midst of his prophetic career, his wife passes away.
When the chief priests and scribes are looking for a way to stealthily arrest and execute Jesus, they will find an ally in Jesus' apostle Judas. But before Mark tells that story, he first wants to pause and tell of the anointing at Bethany so we can see what's really going on (Mark 14:1-11).
Israel's continued rebellion has warranted judgment from God. Ezekiel is dispatched to tell God's people how God has temporarily replaced their promise of Holy dominion with divine judgment. But, as always, God promises to restore Israel to their place of grace.
In this final installment of our Politics by Design series, we learn that there is no simple cookie cutter paradigm for politics in the life of a disciple, but rather that the formation of laws and the applications therein must be based on deep consideration.
God describes His people as a faithless bride. The nation's idolatry is likened to adultery and prostitution. Even so, God promises to take back His people and restore them from their shame. God also speaks a parable of two eagles and the planting of a vine, this represents Jerusalem's betrayal of their arrangement with Babylon and the consequential backlash she received for it.
Love is God's brand. If we are to live in our society as image-bearers of God, all things, including our politics, must be done on brand. We learn in 1 John that our acts of love to people act as the very materialization of God's invisible love in the here and now (1 John 4:7-12).
Ezekiels ministry of performance art prophecy continues as he crawls through the wall of Jerusalem blindfolded and trembles as he eats. Through this, God means to show the people of Israel how their exile correlates with their blindness in idolatry. God also promises swift judgement upon the false prophets and names Jerusalem a fruitless vine.
We look to Job who is upheld in his community as an elder and public servant. In seeing his standard for justice, we learn how the people of God can't turn blind eyes from the needy (Job 29:11-17; 31:13-23).
God shows Ezekiel that there are idols and abominations in His temple and that His people had put them there. God promises judgment upon His workers who are given to idolatry. God's glory leaves the temple not to return. God also promises judgement upon the wicked counsellors in Israel who advise falsely.
Even though our exile is temporary, God calls us to care about our countries and be exemplary citizens. Our callings in this world are to be worshippers, watchdogs, witnesses, and waiters (Jeremiah 29:4-7).
Ezekiel is restrained as a prophet, he may only speak what God has commanded him to speak. What he has been told to prophesy is the coming judgment and seizure of Israel. In so doing, Ezekiel has spoken contrarily against the other prophets who claim that no such seizure should come. Through Ezekiel, God tells His people that His judgment is coming swiftly.
Governments are a limited good, but what about when government goes bad? Jesus disarmed the powers on His Cross so we need not fear government even at its worst and most demonic; when it claims to be divine (Colossians 2:15).
Ezekiel has a vision of God's throne roaming over the world and God calls him to be a prophet to the people of Judah who remain in the land after the destruction of the city.
When Jesus' enemies turn Him over to the leader of the Gentiles, we see that it is actually Pontius Pilate on trial; not Jesus. Jesus' kingdom is not from this world and His kingdom turns this one on its head. As representatives of Jesus' kingdom, we must operate in accordance to it (John 18:18-19:16).
At the landing of the Ark, God institutes the first letter of human government -the death penalty. We see in our study today that all human law, beginning with this first instance originates with the protective heart and nature of God (Genesis 9:1-17; Romans 13:1-7).
The book of Jeremiah concludes with God's people being exiled to Babylon under Nebuchadnezzar. The temple is destroyed and the city of Jerusalem is in ruins. Yet, hope glimmers when Jehoiachin, the last survivor of the Davidic line is released from prison.
In order to best understand how a disciple of Jesus is to view politics, we must start at the beginning (Genesis 1:26-28).
Jeremiah's prophecies continue as God speaks words unto the nations of the world. God rebukes the nations for their false security in the world and its systems. In response, God Himself will show his supremacy over them, yet still He provides the hope of redemption.
At the close of 2019, we look to the book of Jeremiah, not for 'the' vision, but 'a' vision for the coming year. In accordance to Jeremiah's prophecy, we're challenged to build all security upon our relationship with God rather than any other worldly glory (Jeremiah 9:23-24).
Though every Christmas since has been awaited and anticipated, the first Christmas was anything but expected. In Jesus, God gave the world a Gift no one knew we needed.
Now that Jerusalem has fallen, many are tempted to abandon the holy land and flee to Egypt. Despite Jeremiah's warnings to not go there, he himself is carried away to Egypt. Next, Jeremiah continues to prophesy against God's people's idolatry.
In regard to the end times, Jesus creates a tension between certain signs of the end and the uncertain arrival of those signs. Within that tension, how shall we live knowing what we know and not knowing what we don't? Jesus gives one charge --to stay awake (Mark 13:28-37).
Jeremiah warns king Zedekiah of the coming judgment and is soon imprisoned for his troubles. Cast to the bottom of a cistern, Jeremiah sank down waiting to die before he's rescued only to warn Zedekiah once more. Prophecy turns to reality when Jerusalem is destroyed, but Jeremiah stays in the city to continue his ministry.
The end times promise hardship, persecution, and pain. Jesus advises His disciples that when comes the Abomination of Desolation comes, it's go time and although all preceding trials of the Tribulation may be just signs toward the end, this Sign will be time to act and the time to run (Mark 13:14-27).
God tells Jeremiah to buy a field in Israel even though the city is under siege. This is God's way of promising a future restoration of the nation. Yet God further promises judgment upon king Zedekiah, that he will die in Babylon. In utter rejection of Jeremiah's words, King Jehoiakim orders the burning of Jeremiah's scroll, but Jeremiah has another drafted.
The disciples see the temple in awe, but Jesus tells them that the temple is going to be destroyed. In shock, the disciples ask Jesus when these things will be and Jesus instead tells them what signs will precede His return (Mark 13:1-13).
Jesus criticizes the scribes' money practices and points out a widow's donation to the temple in contrast. We see in this passage how Jesus would have us approach finances under His discipleship (Mark 12:38-44).
After a gauntlet of questioning, Jesus has taken the floor and takes this as the opportunity to better instruct His listeners on the identity of the Messiah. Much like the scribes of Jesus' day, we too often underestimate the supremacy of the Christ and in so doing deprive ourselves of the full gift offered to us in Jesus (Mark 12:35-37).
Are all of God's commandments equal or is there one supreme one? Jesus answers this question to the agreement of a sincere scribe and although this agreement brings this scribe near to God's kingdom, it does not admit him in entirely. Jesus shows how He calls us to an arrangement deeper than religion (Mark 28-34).
Jeremiah, by the Lord's direction, sends out a letter to those in exile in Babylon. This letter tells these people to build lives in Babylon and lead reputable lives that would bear witness to the goodness of God. In response, the prophet Shemaiah authors a false prophetic letter calling for the ceasing of Jeremiah's ministry. God tells His people that this exile will not last forever, but there will come a time when Israel and Judah will be ruled by One of their own people.
Jeremiah's ministry and Jeremiah himself continue to inconvenience the rulers in Judah. As he continues to prophesy judgment by Babylon, Jeremiah is sentenced to death but spared in the last minute. To symbolize the surrender to Babylon, God has Jeremiah dawn a yoke. During this spectacle, the prophet Hananiah challenges Jeremiah with a conflicting prophecy.
When the Sadducees propose to Jesus a cleverly-smithed question to illustrate the supposed inconsistency of the after life. Jesus not only corrects their misunderstanding of the afterlife, but also displays His experiential authority over heavenly matters (Mark 12:18-27).
God assures Judah that they will be sacked by Babylon. He also expresses a complete rejection of the line of Coniah, yet still promises a coming faithful branch. Lastly, Jeremiah has a vision of two baskets of figs. God surprisingly explains that the those that remain in Jerusalem are, in fact, the bad figs.
In another attempt to entrap Jesus, the Pharisees and Herodians ask Jesus whether the Jews should pay taxes to Caesar. Jesus turns this seemingly unanswerable conundrum into a dissertation of eternal and heavenly truth (Mark 12:13-17).
God's indictment on His people continues, including their disregard for His holy Sabbath day. Jeremiah still perseveres in his ministry, but when he's arrested, he curses even the day he was born.
On the day following Jesus' cleansing of the temple, the chief priests, scribes, and elders band together to accuse Jesus of undue usurpation of authority that they may deem Him a blasphemer. Jesus, unshaken by their weight-throwing jettisons the conversation taking the discussion of authority to His own conclusions (Mark 11:27-12:12).
God sends Jeremiah to dawn, bury, then recover an unsightly loin cloth to display the ruin of Israel. God tells His people that famine and exile are to come, but the lying prophets continue to contradict God's word through Jeremiah. In this context, God becomes weary of constantly enduring and relenting for His people, yet He will continue nonetheless. God gives comfort to a complaining Jeremiah, but commands him not to marry because there is not safety in the near future of Judah. Notwithstanding, redemption is again promised. God assures His people that He will bring them back and this will declare His glory and heart not just to Israel, but to the nations as well.
Jesus, having already seen the state of the temple, returns with a plan. Before entering, he curses a fig tree for its fruitlessness, then drives out the money changers. We too must not be found fruitless upon His visitation (Mark 11:12-26).
Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem marks His holy presentation as King. This prophecy-fulfilling moment draws us ever nearer to the truth that Jesus is not the Messiah the people expected (Mark 11:1-11).
An uphill hike to Jericho is interrupted by a desperate man named Bartimaeus pleading with Jesus to have mercy on him. In Bartimaeus' example, we see a profound example for how one must submit oneself into Jesus' discipleship (Mark 10:46-52).
Jeremiah continues his ministry of prophecy but he's met with a new opposition -contradicting prophets. Jeremiah's prophecies are rivaled by those who claim that judment is not coming and that all will be well. Even in Jeremiah's own town, he's dismissed and despised, but God maintains that His words will still come to pass.
James and John, the sons of Zebedee make enemies when they ask Jesus to grant them places on His left and right in His kingdom. Jesus uses this as an opportunity to teach them how authority in His kingdom (Mark 10:32-44).
For hundreds of years, God has been sending Israel prophets to warn them about His coming judgment. Jeremiah has been called to be a tester of metals, but God continues to only find straw.
Heads turn when one approached Jesus with sincerity and desperation. Kneeling before Jesus, this man asks a deeply personal question which launches Jesus' dissertation on the economy of His kingdom (Mark 10:17-31).
Jeremiah is called to ministry when judgment is close at hand. God has looked upon His people and found them astray. Jeremiah was appointed for a time such as this.
The book of Isaiah ends with God's judgment, but we see that God's ultimate reconciliation is as much a mark of judgment as it is of salvation. God's resolution of all things is both in justice as well as in mercy.
Our discipleship to Jesus affects every aspect of our lives. In this passage, we see how Jesus has a stern opinion on how we operate of members in our family households (Mark 10:1-16).
Jesus uses provocative language to bring gravity to the discussion of sin in the life of a believer. In this passage we learn how replacing our objects of temptation lead to life but nurturing means to sin leads to death (Mark 9:42-50).
God looks upon Israel's piety and their religious practices and judges them for being emotionally vacant. Despite the appearance of spirituality, God's desire is for His people's heart dedication. In the future, however, God will fully reconcile His people to Himself, though the sequence of events may be a bit unclear. So, God's people look toward Him and wait for His coming.
When Jesus and three of His disciples descend from the mountain of transfiguration, they come to find the remaining disciples in a heated argument with the Jewish scribes. The scribes were ridiculing Jesus' disciples for their inability to cast a demon out of a young boy. Jesus, frustrated, calls out 'how long?!'
Jesus teaches His disciples that denying themselves is the way toward Life in Christ. Shockingly, He compares discipleship unto Him as a shameful death sentence. Yet, Mark intentionally fast-forwards to Jesus' transfiguration to show that self-denial comes hand-in-hand with glorification (Mark 8:34-9:13).
God promises that despite His righteous anger, He will uphold His covenant and therefore bless His people. God has great compassion even for the sinner and He will abundantly pardon their guilt. He will also expand His plan of salvation to the foreigner as well as the eunuch. God sees the licentiousness of Israel's priesthood and the idolatry of the people, yet His goodness remains available.
Isaiah tells of a coming Servant of the LORD who will rule and restore. He contrasts this Servant's faithfulness with Israel's disobedience and assures Israel that God will bring them comfort and a coming salvation. Unexpectedly, however, Isaiah begins to describe the execution of this Servant.
Here in Mark 8, we have the only example of a miracle of Jesus' that takes place in stages. Similarly, we see the gradual understanding of Peter's confession of Jesus as Messiah, but not as the Sacrifice. We, like the blind man, often grow in stages, God looks on our lack of understanding with deliberation as well as patience [Mark 8:22-33].
Beyond the signs, wonders, and miracles Jesus has performed, still the people do not believe He is from God. Wherever Jesus goes, He is met with misunderstanding and opposition, yet He continues to manifest characteristics of the God of Israel (Mark 7:31-8:21).
God reminds His people that He's chosen them and that He will not let them go. However, He foretells the coming judgment which He will send through foreign nations. Yet, just as He will send judgment through a foreign nation, He will also bring relief and deliverance through another; namely through a leader named Cyrus.
Isaiah 40 begins a new section of the book, much like the New Testament is a pivot from the Old. This new section opens with a voice in the wilderness preparing the way of the Lord, then God promises a faithful Servant. God continues to rebuke His people for their idolatry, but promises that He Himself will take them back.
When a Gentile woman comes to Jesus begging Him to deliver her demon-possessed daughter, Jesus reminds her that He's here to preach the Gospel to the Jews first, but Jesus rewards her faith with a miracle. We're reminded in this passage how God did not want to save Israel alone, but rather that He used Israel to bring salvation to the whole world (Mark 7:24-30).
In this passage, Jesus confronts the innate hypocrisy involved in human moralism. He contends that humans are not defiled by external maladies, but instead that humans themselves are the defilers. Jesus turns the holiness code upside down by showing that what people need are not the washing of hands but the internal cleansing of the heart (Mark 7:1-23).
God promises the judgment coming through Sennacherib. Meanwhile, Hezekiah comes down with an illness that's got him shut in. Isaiah assures Hezekiah that he will recover but Hezekiah's successor will be the worst king Judah has ever seen.
God, through His prophet Isaiah, rebukes his people for their complacency, urging them to take seriously the coming judgment. God promises a coming redemption, but judgment will come first; even global judgment. Even so, passed the destruction, lush new life will arise. This shows God's righteousness as well as His grace.
Mark implicates Jesus with the God of the Old Testament who sits enthroned above the flood and treads upon the waves. Using language and imagery from Exodus and Malachi, Mark proves that Jesus is both the fierce and glorious God but also the gracious servant (Mark 6:45-56).
Jesus, mourning the death of John the Baptist, departs to the wilderness to pray. The multitudes follow Him; so He takes the time to teach them, but because they're in the wilderness, they find themselves hungry without anything to take for sustenance. It is here where Jesus is found in the same position as God over Israel wandering in their wilderness. Like the God of the Old Testament, Jesus miraculously provides them food (Mark 6:30-44).
God rebukes His people for their alliance with Egypt. He reminds them that they can't depend on people, but they can always trust in His provision and protection.
Jesus was an authority in rebuke. Both He and his forerunner, John the Baptist, preached messages that required repentance; rebukes that challenged the lives of their listeners. At times, we as believers have to bear the same challenging posture (Mark 6:14-30).
Chapters 24 to 27 of the book of Isaiah are sometimes called 'the little apocalypse'. These chapters look toward the ultimate resolution and redemption of this fallen world.
Jesus sends out His disciples to cast out demons. We too have been endowed with the power of the Holy Spirit and are sent out into this world to display Jesus' power (Mark 6:7-13).
One of the first commandments God made to mankind was to be fruitful and multiply. A life of singleness seems to forsake this commandment and deprive one of the opportunity to invest in a family, or does it? (Mark 10:28-30)
Jesus tells the Sadducees that there will be no marriage in Eternity. If this is the case, singles in relationship with Jesus is the future for every believer (Matthew 22:29-32).
The book of the nations continues. Isaiah experiences personal physical anguish over the promised judgement of these pagan nations, as well as Judah. But God has plans of redemption for even the worst of these peoples groups.
God promises judgment upon many of the nations surrounding His faithful people. Whilst telling His plans for judgment, He also expresses his wielding of said nations. Ultimately, we come to see that God also will judge Judah for many of these same atrocities, however, a special dispensation of grace is available for Judah because of the existing covenants that God will not break.
If Jesus lived a celibate life, then romantic relationships cannot mark the height of human flourishing. How is it that we have under-valued singleness in the church and how should we correct this misunderstanding (Matthew 19:10-12)?
The final session of our retreat explored what manner of behaviors, thoughts, and/or forces might inhibit our ability to hear God's word to us.
Rev. Dr. James Kearny works with Presbyterian Reformed Ministries International teaching Christians how to properly treat the Holy Spirit and His power.
In this second session, James shares his experiences and recommendations toward how we can begin to listen to God's direction in prayer.
Rev. Dr. James Kearny works with Presbyterian Reformed Ministries International teaching Christians how to properly treat the Holy Spirit and His power.
In this first session of our retreat, James introduces himself and shares with us his journey finding Christ and his challenge to reconcile his learnedness with the spiritual experiences he'd had serving in ministry.
Rev. Dr. James Kearny works with Presbyterian Reformed Ministries International teaching Christians how to properly treat the Holy Spirit and His power.
Isaiah's book of Immanuel concludes with a promise for a divine Son who will take over the Davidic dynasty for all eternity. Also promised is a global restoration of not just humanity, but also the animal kingdom.
At the end of this section chalked full of Jesus' miraculous works, Jesus rolls back into His hometown along with an entourage of disciples. Though impressed by Jesus' accomplishments, the people from Nazareth are far too familiar with Jesus to believe that He's God's Messiah (Mark 6:1-6).
When a man desperately asks Jesus to help his dying daughter, Jesus makes His way through a crowd and is touched by a woman suffering from an ailment for twelve years. Jesus helps them both and extends the faith of the onlookers (Mark 5:21-43).
Isaiah has a vision of God seated on His throne and God calls him to a ministry of prophecy. Through Isaiah, God tells Israel of their coming judgment by Assyria and their coming Savior --God with us.
God looks upon His people and has judged them unfaithful. The people of Israel and Judah have given themselves to idolatry. In losing sight of the one true God, not only have they lost their worshipfulness, but they've also stopped caring about one another. Replacing charity for overindulgence, God's people have earned judgment. Even so, God has for-ordained their redemption.
When Jesus sets free a man terribly tormented by demons. Jesus' miraculous deliverance is met with fear and rejection. If we too have been delivered from anything by Jesus, we have the commendation to share our story to those who will listen to us, but may never listen to Jesus Himself (Mark 5:1-20)
The decline still continues toward the inevitable collapse of Judah. Along the way, Josiah is crowned and restores holy worship to Israel. But when he dies, judgment does come and Judah is carried away to Babylon. Still, God's promise to David endures when a remnant of the Davidic Dynasty is spared and provided for by Nebuchadnezzar's successor.
When Jesus' disciples and a fleet of followers cross the treacherous Galilee at night, a perilous storm strikes. The disciples rouse Jesus awake and He rebukes the contrary winds. This miracle leaves Jesus' closest friends wondering who he is (Mark 4:35-41).
Jesus became dead, but now He's alive forevermore. If Jesus has overcome the grave, it changes everything we know; it changes every aspect of our otherwise temporal lives! (Revelation 1:18)
Jesus continues to speak in parables concerning His message. In these two parables, Jesus likens His kingdom to a seed that grows to miraculous proportion. We see in these teachings that the growth of the Gospel is a supernatural and miraculous work (Mark 4:26-34).
While Israel's legacy of idolatrous kings continues, a similar king ascends in Judah. Israel is finally given over to their adversaries in Assyria. Then, Hezekiah comes to power in Judah destroying the high places and refusing to fall before Assyria. Though Sennacherib tries to also sack Judah, Isaiah foretells his failure and the protection of Judah. When Hezekiah becomes unexpectedly ill, he prays that God would spare his life.
The pace quickens as the narrative speeds past king after king. Aside from a repair of the temple, most developments in Israel's and Judah's follow a steady decline toward their eventual captivity.
Jesus' parable presents a strange event --the arrival of a lamp. In this passage we explore the dynamic of Jesus' words being given to mankind as a discoverable gift challenging us to listen in for the eternal words of God (Mark 4:21-25).
Jesus teaches an intentionally cryptic message surrounding the theme of hearing. When His disciples ask Him to explain why He chooses to speak in parables, it becomes clear that the disciples also didn't understand the parable He recently spoke. The Parable of the Sower is a survey of the various hostilities with which the word of God is met (Mark 4:1-20).
This series of chapters follows Jehu's crusade over the Northern kingdom of Israel. Jehu exterminates the remaining members of Ahab's dynasty. Although God's judgment is poured out upon Ahab, we see that Israel's present is an entirely new low and a greater departure from God's character.
When the multitudes seek out Jesus for a free meal, Jesus thins the crowd of followers with outrageous comments about eating His flesh and drinking His blood. Outrage aside, it is true that God has welcomed us to His table enter into a household of salvation (John 6:48-58).
Jesus shocks when He challenges His listeners to not invite their close friends and relatives to their dinners. Instead, He tells them that inviting the destitute and poor is a greater heavenly investment. Like many of the people in His parable, many of us find ourselves making poor excuses to not join Jesus' table. If we can learn to accept Jesus' company, we might be more apt to being accepted by His hospitality too (Luke 14:12-24).
These chapters catalogue the many miracles God has done through Elisha. Within this list, we see God's compassion shown in the greatest of tragedies even to the most mundane of inconveniences. These miracles give us a glimpse into the reality of God's work beneath the visible surfaces.
The hospitality Jesus showed extended to associating Himself with sinners. Not only was he found at the tables of flagrant members of society, but also those guilty of the sin of self-rigteousness (Luke 7:36-50).
Ahaziah reigns after his father Ahab and proves to be of a similar sort as his father. Elijah's ministry comes to a close and he passes his mantle to his student Elisha. Elisha now continues this ministry prophesying of God's judgment upon His people. But, when Moab revolts, Israel's victory further proves that God's favor still remains with them.
The Bible, especially the Old Testament, was written in the context of Middle Eastern culture wherein hospitality is of the utmost courtesy. In a time where cities were set miles apart with nothing in between, a hospitable host could mean the difference between life and death. Abraham shows us how a servant of God should serve even strangers in a sacrificial gift proportionate to his means (Genesis 18:1-8).
1 Kings comes to a close with the death of Ahab and Jezebel. Though the faithfulness of Judah's king Jehoshaphat lends mercy to Ahab's line, his continued sinfulness does bring him and his wife to divine judgment.
Jesus has looked out into the room of his disciples and said "you are my family". This high honor is extended to us through the ages. Though sin has corroded family and community, Jesus Himself has welcomed us into the household of God and the family customs and traditions have been given to us (Mark 3:31-35).
In what genre do we think our life is found? What kind of narrative do we think we're living? Unless we're well aware that our lives are all about Jesus, we can often fear that off-genre events derail our lives. Instead, we ought to embrace the hardships of marriage as aspects of God's written plan. He's in charge of the narrative. Craig and Vicki Finley offer pivotal marriage tips like practicing forgiveness and fighting fair.
When scribes from Jerusalem label Jesus as a high ranking satanic agent, Jesus pronounces a stern warning that there is a sin that cannot be forgiven. Here we see that each person must decide whether to fight for Jesus or against Him. There is no neutral ground (Mark 3:22-30).
Jesus calls 12 young men to be His specially selected disciples, known as apostles. These men stand apart from the generic crowds that surround Jesus. What is the difference between a bystander and a disciple? Relationship. Our walks with Jesus are highlighted by the truth that He's reached out to us to enter into relationship with Him (Mark 3:7-21).
With Ahab, son of Omri in power, God raises up Elijah the prophet to speak His word. Elijah is bold in the face of opposition but when he sees that the Baal worshippers won't relent, he falls into a panic. God assures Elijah of His retained remnant, and sends Elijah on three final assignments.
We find Jesus spending His Sabbath at the synagogue when enters a man with a withered hand. Jesus uses this as an opportunity to show that God's law was meant to proactively do good, not merely refraining from evil (Mark 3:1-6).
Both Israel in the North and Judah in the South begin their descent into judgment. Israel's kingdom declines much more quickly with betrayal after betrayal leading to a number of separate dynasties. The Davidic Dynasty in Judah remains intact, but even the Davidic Kings display a departure from God's ordinances. Idolatry, treachery, and assassination plague these succeeding generations of God's once-holy people.
When Jesus' disciples are caught picking grain on the Sabbath, the Pharisees think they've caught Jesus' troupe in apostasy. This accusation becomes an opportunity for Jesus to share God's heart for the flourishing of life. In this we see how God intends to set His people free to rest and to work, not to bind them by restrictions regarding rest and work (Mark 2:23-28).
People ask why Jesus' disciples don't fast like John's disciples. Jesus uses this as an opportunity to declare Himself to be something entirely new, rather than just a reformer. He explains that His ministry celebrates an unprecedented Arrival (Mark 2:18-22).
Tonight we cover two chapters of sharp incline and two chapters of an even steeper decline. Solomon's reign marks the zenith of Israel's history, but his use of wealth and his polygamy turns his heart away from the Lord. God's favor is also turned away from Solomon's lineage (though He promises to preserve a remnant for David's sake). Solomon's son Rehoboam's trust in inexperienced counsel leads to a massive secession from the kingdom. So begins to show the defects in the hearts of these kings of men.
Solomon continues his father's legacy by building a temple to the Lord (plus, a house for himself). Despite the majesty of this edifice, Solomon's dedication speech makes clear that it cannot contain the Person of the Lord. God's glory fills this temple and so begins the pinnacle of Israel's history.
Jesus shocks His friends and critics alike when He enters into the house of Levi, a tax collector. We learn in this passage how the Gospel always pushes the boundaries we normally impose upon It. Jesus challenges us to reach out to those on the other side and extend to them the same grace He's shown us (Mark 2:13-17).
As David advances in age, his son Adonijah plans a campaign to laud himself as the successor to the throne. Bathsheeba and Nathan ask David whether he'd intended to appoint Solomon instead. David sees to Solomon's ascension and Solomon executes his father's final orders in the beginnings of his reign of affluence and wisdom.
When faithful men bring their beloved friend to Jesus, they find the way obstructed by too many attendees. They deface the roof to lower their friend down to Jesus. When before Jesus, the man finds forgiveness (Mark 2:1-12).
The book of Acts does not follow the works of the Apostles without Jesus, rather the work of Jesus through His people. Sincere prayer is the common underlying precursor to every powerful work. We as the church today should be given to grow in prayer just like our forefathers that we may more experience the presence, power, and purposes of God. (Acts 1:14 & 2:1; Acts 4:23-31; Acts 12:5-17; Acts 13:1-2)
The work that the Bible can do in our lives is efficacious and life changing. No other written work can demonstrate this level of activity. The power of Scripture is does not lie in the written words themselves, but that they bear the power of the God Who sent them (Hebrews 3:7-4:13).
Jesus' use and view of scripture shows us how we should uphold the Bible. We see in this passage how Jesus not only trusts the word of God but refers to it as a standard of Truth (Matthew 4:1-11).
Can the Bible really be understood? Can God truly be known through Scripture? The doctrine of the Clarity of Scripture means that because God has made himself known through human language and culture that we can understand what he said. This doctrine doesn't remove the need for study, it invites it (Deuteronomy 30:11-14).
When we say that Scripture is sufficient, we don't mean that the Bible tells us everything exhaustive detail about every individual topic. What we mean is that no prerequisite for wisdom or holiness is missing from the works of the Bible. From the wealth of Scripture, we can glean entirely what we need for a life of meaning and salvation (2 Timothy 3:14-4:4).
According to Paul, even the greatest minds and the most creative imaginations can never come to the conclusions of who God is. Instead, like any personal introduction, this requires God's own words to tell us Who He is (2 Corinthians 2:6-13).
The nature of our Bible is tied up in the nature of the God who sent it. This Bible is not the well-intentioned words of men and their best hypothesis of a god and things they cannot understand; this is God Himself speaking to reveal Himself in His own words. We find this verifiable by accomplished prophecy and internal consistency (Isaiah 45:18-25).
In the last stretch of the book, we see this epilogue which includes David's recompense to Gibeah, David's last words, and David's national sin. We find that no hero is without failure, but a lover of God is made blameless by the mercies and graces of God.
Jesus is able to heal us of all our infirmities, even the deeply physical ones, but is He willing? (Mark 1:29-45)
The loose end comes back to whip in this continuation of the Tamar story. Absalom revolts against the king by winning over the hearts of the people and by force takes his father's throne and concubines. This collection of chapters reads like a spy thriller, with intrigue, betrayal, and deceit. In the end, several thousands are left dead including some of David's irreplaceable.
Jesus enters into the synagogue in Capernaum. When there, His teaching leaves the hearers dumbfounded, not because of His eloquence or insight, but because of His authority. This apparent authority is exemplified when Jesus commands a demon to leave a male synagogue attendee (Mark 1:21-28).
Jesus begins His ministry by calling obscure fishermen to walk with Him. We see in this passage how Jesus' divinity gives Him a significant authority in placing a destiny upon His people (Mark 1:16-20).
In the book of Mark, we find the origin story of the Church. Mark uses a cocktail of allusion to the Old Testament to make the case of Jesus being the Christ and the beloved Son of God (Mark 1:1-15).
In the season when kings go out to battle, David stays home and so begins the degradation of this great man. David's sin with Bathsheba seems to set in motion a series of death, violence, and sexual perversion. Still, David is met with the grace and mercy of God.
One of the first orders of David's reign is to bring the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem, the new national capitol. The book carries on to outline the various military conquests of David and the spread of his fame throughout the nations. We also see how David reaches out to the sons of his fallen allies to extend his kindness to them.
The great commission can seem like such a daunting task. But what does Jesus really expect of His church? Is it really as extraordinary as we let on? (Matthew 28:16-20)
These early chapters in 2 Samuel, we see the dynamics of the transition of power from the dynasty of Saul to David's. We see over a slew of intrigue, double-crossing, and assassination, that David remains meek and blameless. Despite a long history of people telling David that God has given him some sort of treacherous opportunity, it is only when when David has received unsolicited grace, that David knows personally that God has given him the throne.
Even though some believers are radically changed by radio/television broadcasts of the gospel, every believer needs other more mature believers to pour in to them and advise them on their journey of sanctification. This is how God intended His body to function (Ephesians 4:11-14).
The final chapter of Saul's life is a sad one. It is also full of tension, as David is working for the Philistines. Will Saul die at his hand after all? Once again we encounter God's sovereign plan as He leads David to the throne.
Why should we make disciples? According to Paul in Titus we should make disciples because of what God did in revealing grace in Christ, because of what God will do in revealing glory in Christ and because of what God is doing in purifying a people for himself. This is why we as a church seek to embrace our calling to make mature disciples of Jesus.
David's life on the lam continues. His path crosses with several colorful characters along the way. He saves the people of Keilah, but they give him over to Saul. David spares Saul's once, meets and marries Abigail the wife of Nabal, and spares Saul's life a second time. At the end of this passage, Saul goes back to his throne and David leaves the borders of Israel.
Jesus, the eternal King, bears many titles that human government bears. He is Ruler, Judge, and Enforcer. The one unique quality Jesus gives His people is that He is the Giver of Life. We see in this passage the great hope that awaits for those who've given their life into Jesus' hands (Daniel 12).
Jonathan and David consort to determine whether or not Saul is actually trying to kill David. When certainty is assured, David flees Saul's house. On his way, David cross paths with the priests in Nob, acquires Goliath's sword, and builds up an army.
When Daniel fasts in mourning, God sends him an angel to reveal to him that which is to come. An intense vision of God's glory lays Daniel out, from which he gradually recovers over the course of the chapter (Daniel 10).
God directs Samuel to the household of Jesse, the Ephrathite. There, God selects everyone's last choice as His next king. David is anointed in secret, but fame begins gathering around him from his defeat of the Philistine Champion, Goliath, through David's continued military prowess. Meanwhile, an intense jealousy brews within Saul against his new right hand man.
Saul's reign continues and his character begins to show patterns of self-centeredness and the fear of man. Meanwhile, Saul's son Jonathan fears no man and even risks his life in the hands of God. By the end of this passage, God will decree the ending of Saul's dynasty much to the sorrow of Samuel.
When Daniel reads Jeremiah's prophecy, he sees that the captivity is almost over. He turns to prayer and surveys Israel's history for times when they've received undeserved mercy from their God. We see in this passage our undeniable guilt in contrast to God's ever-available mercy (Daniel 9).
Samuel is frustrated when the Israelites ask for a king like the other nations. Despite his frustrations, Samuel heeds God and appoints Saul as the first king over Israel. Though Saul is initially reluctant to be crowned king, he rises to the occasion to rescue the city of Jabesh Gilead.
Daniel is given another vision about coming human empires. We see in this passage that even the greatest power of man pales in comparison to God's ultimate power (Daniel 8).
When the Philistines attack, Israel resorts to bringing out the Ark of the Covenant to strengthen their battle. At the subsequent loss, the Ark is captured and the line of Eli is decimated. In Philistine territory, God wreaks havoc and sets in motion a realization that leads to a national repentance in Israel. So begins Samuel's national ministry.
In this passage, God reveals to Daniel the coming imperial conquests that will befall the earth in the coming centuries. We see that unlike theirs, God's reign is from everlasting and that His foreknowledge proves that He is the preeminent King. Knowing this future, our present should be affected (Daniel 7).
Daniel finds himself thrown into the den of lions. It is there he finds the salvation of the Lord. We too see how God, Whose laws supersede those of man, continues to save His people even in the gravest of situations (Daniel 6).
As we open up the book of Samuel, we see the many ways that the pattern of the book of Judges extends into this era; and yet the rare occasions where that pattern is broken. When a barren woman looks to the Lord for compassion, God lets loose the beginnings of a new work in the nation of Israel.
This concluding study through Judges follows four chapters of epilogue that exhibit the depth of Israel's departure from the way of the LORD. Beginning with a curse and a robbery, the book closes with a deadly civil war that leads to, at best, partial repentance.
The succeeding king, Belshazzar has forgotten what God has done in Babylon. He does not know the conclusions to which Nebuchadnezzar came concerning the God of Israel. We see that God cuts the time off and judges this king, having weighed his worth concerning the things of God (Daniel 5).
We close the book on Jephthah and read the story of Samson. A lover of riddles, Samson himself is a bit of a riddle himself. His constant back and forth with the Philistines proves him to be undisputedly the best and worst judge we've seen thus far. His story, full of deceit, debauchery, and compromise becomes a bit of an allegory for the nation of Israel itself.
When Nebuchadnezzar has another startling dream, he turns to Daniel for its interpretation. Daniel foresees Nebuchadnezzar's coming destruction in God's holy judgment. We learn how our inclination toward idolatrous glory robs us of the true satisfaction found in glorifying the one true God (Daniel 4).
What do we do when we're faced with a controversial issue that flies in the face of our faith? We see from Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego that serving God publicly can lead to a type of change in the world that we couldn't fabricate if we tried (Daniel 3).
First, we begin with the seizure of power from Gideon's son Abimelech. After witnessing his rise and fall, we meet a few more judges before the rule of Jephthah, the Gileadite. Jephthah's tragedy sheds light upon how Israel sees their God and the depth of their decline.
When Nebuchadnezzar has a troubling dream, he threatens the lives of all his seers to divine the content and meaning of his dream. Daniel appeals to his God on behalf of the safety of his peers (Daniel 2:1-45).
At a time when Israel is being plundered by a nomadic race, the Angel of the Lord appears to the youngest son of a man of Menasseh. Gideon begins as a coward and dies a tyrant surrounded by idolatry and debauchery.
Daniel and his three friends find themselves taken captive into a pagan nation. We see Daniel's insurgency in the strangest places and boundaries proving that the true God is really the One in charge (Daniel 1).
After the death of Joshua, the Lord looks upon the Israelites and sees that they have turned their hearts away from Him. God delivers the Israelites up to warring nations. This passage includes the first four judges in Israel: Othniel, Ehud, Shamgar, and Deborah.
The Israelites beyond the Jordan erect a memorial altar that nearly sparks a civil war. Joshua is ready to die and addresses the nation one last time.
Paul concludes his second letter to the Corinthians by reminding them that his desire for them is their maturity. Although he isn't afraid to come to the Corinthians in authority, it's ultimately for their growth; not for their destruction (2 Cor 13:9-14).
Like a spiritual paternity test, Paul surveys the visible fruit in the Corinthians' lives to to determine whether they are truly God's spiritual children (2 Cor 13:5-8).
The remaining tribes are assigned their inheritance in the land by way of casting lots. Cities of refuge and Levitical cities are also assigned throughout the promised land and Joshua is given an inheritance. Lastly, we see that which perhaps may be the key verse in all of the book of Joshua, that not one of God's promises failed.
Although not all of the battles have not yet been fought, the Israelites see the division of the land as promised to them by God. Some Israelites, like Caleb, see this as a great opportunity for God to show His faithfulness. On the other hand, other Israelites, some entire tribes, fail to drive out the inhabitants of the land.
As with any loving father with his children, discipline is a component of Paul's relationship with the Corinthians. We see that Paul's use of correction is not punitive but loving and with the desire to see the church grow (2 Cor 12:19-3:4).
As Israel's reputation for divine military prowess precedes them, the people of Gibeon trick the Israelites into a non-agression pact. The Israelites unwittingly enter into this alliance against God's direction, and yet they must honor this covenant. As such, they go into battle on behalf of the protection of the Gibeonites. God miraculously sees to the victory of this battle. The chapters proceed through a history of the servants and children of God versus the kings of men.
Paul compares his free ministry to the Corinthian church to parents' free service to their children. In this passage we learn about pastoral ministry as well as parenting (2 Cor 12:11-18).
The nation of Israel begin their campaign into the Holy Land. In the infancy of this campaign, they meet the angelic Commander of the Lord's Army, defeat Jericho, and execute judgment on Achan and his family.
Not merely being ironic, Paul relishes his opportunity to boast in his weaknesses. Why might that be? (2 Cor 11:30-12:10)
Object Lesson Video available at: https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.youtube.com/attribution_link?a%3DZZTLlZDUG65GrVPO%26u%3D/watch%253Fv%253D5lJMuq64Tzk%2526feature%253Dem-share_video_user&source=gmail&ust=1528393110500000&usg=AFQjCNE9nVdKjRN5h_CJt3GPcENq7qVfeg
Paul begins to boast about his weaknesses and even cites a divine vision as a point of weakness (2 Cor 11:30-12:10).
It can be hard to trust God with your future. Whether it be your past traumas or your present worries, looking to tomorrow can be worrisome.
Riley Taylor is the senior pastor at Calvary Fellowship in Mountlake Terrace, WA and one of the planting pastors of Calvary: the Hill.
In the book of Ezra, the Israelites face opposition from all around them. They come to see that God fights for them and protects them. The ultimate example of God with us is found in Jesus Christ.
Riley Taylor is the senior pastor at Calvary Fellowship in Mountlake Terrace, WA and one of the planting pastors of Calvary: the Hill.
God moves to raise up individuals to participate in rebuilding the temple. Revival like this doesn't come without prayer and personal commitment to God's calling.
Riley Taylor is the senior pastor at Calvary Fellowship in Mountlake Terrace, WA and one of the planting pastors of Calvary: the Hill.
Israel's new leader is introduced as Joshua, the Servant of the Lord. The Beginnings of this book include spies inquiring of the land, the meeting of a prostitute named Rahab, and God drying up the Jordan to let the Israelites cross on dry land.
Paul, borrowing a technique of many Roman rhetoricians including Caesar, lauds his credentials. His credentials, however, appear shameful in the eyes of the Corinthians; yet Paul explains that this makes his life more like Christ's (2 Cor 11:21-29).
Paul uses the Corinthians' accusations to his advantage. Since they're so quick to treat him as a fool, he figures he might as well boast as the fools do. But before he does, he emphatically declares that this is not Jesus' way (2 Corinthians 11:16-21)
What motivates a teacher to preach is key in seeing whether their shepherds like Paul and Jesus (2 Corinthians 11:7-18)
With this final sermon, we close the Pentateuch. These remaining chapters serve as appendices tying up the final exhortation Moses speaks over the nation of Israel and also narrates the events of his death.
Paul answers his critics by reminding the church that a true teacher presents Jesus to the church (2 Cor 11:1-6).
Although we may not occupy official positions of authority, we all operate in a God-given sphere of influence. Despite the fact that we have a diverse range of influences, Paul's posture challenges us to stay the course and not be distracted by comparing ourselves to others (2 Cor 10: 12-18)
Moses finishes out his exposition of the law and proceeds to pronounce blessings upon Israel in the event of their obedience as well as curses in the event of their rebellion. Moses prophesies that Israel will indeed rebel and yet he tells them how God will forgive and bring them back into the land. Thus concludes Moses' farewell address; all that remains is four chapters of epilogue.
Married couples must recognize the limitations of their love and engage in ongoing conversations setting the boundaries of sacrifice and self care in their shared and individual lives.
Jordan and Michelle Taylor serve as pastoral family at Calvary Wallingford in Washington.
In these legislation passages, we see that God's care and emphasis is always on the abject and destitute. Never will God permit greater priority on the monetary gain over the person.
In our culture, we've become so anti-authority that we've lost site of the value of proper authority. As we explore Paul's role of authority, Apostleship, we see that in God's kingdom, there indeed is a structure of authority, but not quite like the world's (2 Cor. 10:7-11).
In this portion of Deuteronomy, Moses outlines the laws that concern the respecting of human life. We see some of the most controversial laws of the old testament over the course of these four chapters. Upon further investigation, however, we see that God seems to care more deeply than our sophistication; not less. THIS IS PART 1 OF A 2 PART SERMON THAT ENDS WITH DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 22. PLEASE CONTINUE ON TO THAT SERMON FOR THE CONCLUSION OF THIS SERMON.
In this portion of Deuteronomy, Moses outlines the laws that concern the respecting of human life. We see some of the most controversial laws of the old testament over the course of these four chapters. Upon further investigation, however, we see that God seems to care more deeply than our sophistication; not less. THIS IS PART 2 OF A 2 PART SERMON THAT BEGINS WITH DEUTERONOMY CHAPTERS 19-21. PLEASE LISTEN TO THAT SERMON PRIOR TO THIS ONE FOR THE FIRST HALF OF THIS SERMON.
As Paul contrasts himself to his critics, we discover a Christian understanding of true power. Because of the coming of Jesus Christ, our view of power can never be the same (2 Cor 10:1-6).
Is belief in the Resurrection foolish? In this sermon, we examine the Old Testament's demand for a dying and rising Messiah. The disciples on the Road to Emmaus had their eyes opened and the apostles had their minds opened. Despite the rationale in the faith in the Resurrection, the ultimate realization of said faith is a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:13-33).
When God calls us to give, He's not calling us to do anything He hasn't first exemplified Himself (2 Cor 9:8-15)
As navigating through the decalogue, Moses expounds on the idea of Sabbath lifestyle and the honoring of authority. In addition, Moses places restrictions on the roles of judges, kings, and prophets. Upon deeper examination, we see how Jesus upholds all of these restrictions and even far exceeds them.
Though God promises eternal reward for generosity shown to the needy, He will revoke that reward for an impure heart. God calls us to have willing hearts when giving (2 Cor 9:1-7)
Moses reminds the people of existing laws and even expounds on some of them more deeply. Ultimately, we see how God has structurally designed Israel to be set apart and be wholly different from their surrounding neighbors.
For the Jerusalem offering, Paul determines to recuse himself and appoint three men of good reputation to bear the gift. As Paul sought to manage his ministry in blamelessness, so should we. In doing so, we bear a good witness for the God Whom we represent (2 Corinthians 8:16-24).
When God calls us to give, it's never because He needs from us, but rather because He wants to give blessing to us as well. How can that be? (2 Corinthians 8:10-15)
As the apostle Paul exhorts the Corinthian church regarding their relief gift to the Jerusalem church, we learn how we too can offer relief to our family in Christ. In this message we see that the gift should not be out of compulsion, but out of love instead (2 Cor 8:1-9)
Moses exhorts the nation of Israel to remember the testimony that God has built for them in their history. He reminds them of the Golden Calf event and the remade tablets of stone. He calls the people to serve God because He's lovingly saved them despite them not deserving.
Through Paul's example of humility, we can learn how to pursue repentance for the wrongs we've committed against others (2 Corinthians 7:10-11).
Moses addresses the succeeding generation of Israelites to reaffirm the covenant established at the foot of Mount Horeb in the generation before. Moses explains that this covenant is extended to their generation and the ones that follow. The Ten Commandments are recapitulated and set a thesis and perhaps even an outline for the remainder of his address.
In this passage, we see Paul graciously considering the abuse with which the Corinthian Church had treated him. We can learn from his behavior how we should react to other peoples' sin toward us (2 Corinthians 7:2-9, 7:12-16).
This, the last book of the Pentateuch, has Moses addressing the people of Israel in one final exhortation. This pastoral address challenges the Israelites to build future faithfulness upon a foundation of God's past faithfulness.
We see in this passage that Paul's boundaries between him and others are altered by his relationship with Jesus (2 Corinthians 6:11-7:4).
Like Paul, our lives are never perfect. In reality, we navigate a slew of hardships and trials in our every day to day. However, the death of Jesus Christ changes how we interpret those difficult times when they inevitably come (2 Cor 6:3-10).
This final passage of Numbers tackles issues of property, vengeance, and inheritance. As the penultimate installment of the Torah, this passage closes the revelatory chapter and makes way to Moses' farewell address--the book of Deuteronomy.
According to Scripture, prior to our Salvation, we were at enmity with God. According to Scripture, our sins offend and even grieve God. Yet, according to Scripture, it is that same offended God who makes sacrifice to restore our broken relationship (2 Corinthians 5:18-6:2).
This passage opens with the legislation of vow-making; particularly that of female worshippers of God. Then, we see God directing the Israelites to execute His vengeance upon the Midianites for their trickery at Baal Peor in chapter 25. Lastly, as the cursed generation trickles away, two and a half tribes decide to settle east of the Jordan, outside of the promised land.
Amidst the variety of changes Paul explains to the Corinthians, The Change stands as the root from which all fruit is born (2 Corinthians 5:17).
As Moses approaches the end of his life/ministry, God names his successor and tells him how to orchestrate his exit. Also in this passage, we see the daily, monthly, and yearly rhythms of Israel's sacrificial system.
Our relationship with Jesus unequivocally involves a transformation of our characters. In this passage we see that Paul expects that Jesus will sanctify how we relate to other people (2 Corinthians 5:11-15).
As we look ahead for a new year, it benefits us to dedicate to Christ one focus for the season to come. Philippians 3:10-14.
John the Apostle refers to himself as the elder and to the Church as the beloved. He proceeds to tell the church that God exhibits His love by sending Jesus to the earth (1 John 4:7-10).
In this passage we see how God's sovereign use of people has very little to do with the qualification of the people whom He uses. God uses an animal, and a Babylonian to prophesy in favor of an adulterous and stubborn Israel.
The Joy which the Messiah has brought to the world and endowed to His people exceeds circumstantial comfort, it is a poignant satisfaction that cuts through even the severest desperation.
As foretold by the prophet Micah, the Messiah would come from the obscure corners of Judah where King David once tended a flock of sheep. The Messiah too would be a Shepherd of sorts. Ultimately, the Messiah would usher in a peace that exceeds armistice and protection; one that is eternally permanent (Micah 5:1-15).
As the nation of Israel presses closer to entering into the land, the cracks and weaknesses continue to show. When Miriam dies, and Moses fails, it becomes more and more clear that Israel suffers from a unilateral character flaw and only God can save them in His mercy.
With the nation of Israel sentenced to wander the wilderness until the generation dies out, the people are found hopeless and disgruntled. This passage hosts a series of complaints and rebellions that are ultimately stopped by God's clear declaration of His choice of leadership.
The coming of the Messiah was foretold by prophets and anticipated by the world. God made this promise to a broken world to give it hope for the coming salvation.
Wayne Taylor has been the senior Pastor at Calvary Fellowship in Mountlake Terrace, Washington for 40 years.
Knowing that there is a coming judgment for Christians, how should we live today? Furthermore, what do non-believers have to gain by coming to believe in Jesus? (2 Cor 5:6-10)
The Israelites finally set out, but soon after complain against the Lord. From nationwide bickering to a power struggle within Moses' own family, God is frustrated with a stubborn and grumbling people. The culmination of such character flaws leads to the nation's first great delay in reaching the promised land.
Death has reigned from Adam to now blazing paths for exploitation, oppression and despair. Paul is seen running headway toward death without a single hint of dread. Can it be that Paul has found something that frees him from the tyranny of mortality? (2 Cor 5:1-5)
The departure from Sinai is even closer, but God takes further time to organize and clarify His law for His people. In this span of chapters, we learn about the Nazarite Vow, Israel's communication trumpets, and the mode of God's leading.
Now that the Israelites are ready to enter into the land of Canaan, God shows them how the law He's established functions. In this passage, God numbers the able-bodied men for Israelites military and God divides the responsibilities of the tabernacle amongst the sons of Levi.
Understanding the eternal destination of a believer inherently changes one's present outlook. Paul uses the promise of eternity to awaken hope despite his daily persecution (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).
Through this sermon series, we have explored God's model of wholeness. But what do we, the broken, do? Tonight, we look at the stories surrounding the man blind from birth (John 9:1-7), the woman at the well (John 4:7-18), the woman caught in adultery (John 8:2-11), and the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-30). In all of these cases, though different in each, we see that Christ is the missing component and the answer to all needs.
When discussing the matter of submission and subjection, one can easily assume abuse is a part of the equation. How can it be that God would have designed marriage with an order of authority? We see in this study that subjection doesn't have to imply merit or value (Ephesians 5:22-33).
Although we often insert our own pre-conceived notions into the boundaries of femininity and masculinity, we find very little of such notions in Scripture. What we do find is that there are aspects of manhood as well as womanhood that are wholly inseparable from one's humanity. We also see that God has intentionally inserted these aspects into His creation in order to display His character (Genesis 1:26-28).
The beginning of God's work on earth is in the area of developing society. Uniquely, the sexual relationship begets the integral components of society. In Christ, we see an extension of of that same heart of society-building, only in a greater form (Malachi 2:14-15).
There's a very crucial component in our sexuality, and that's intimate relationship. We find in the original design for marriage that God's intention for man is relationship. Paul takes this paradigm to another level when he says that the purpose for the closeness of the marital relationship is to testify to the relationship between the church and Christ (Genesis 2:1-25).
It is an incorrect paradigm to see the Gospel message as something merely spiritual. Salvation involves the human being bodily as much as it involves their thought life. Both in the physical as well as the spiritual is Christ resurrected, so being, the Christian is also resurrected; and their physical and spiritual behavior comes into importance and consideration (1 Cor. 6:13-20).
In order to discuss sex or gender, the most helpful place to begin is at the beginning of Creation as told in Genesis 1 and 2. From this place we build our understanding of men, women, and the Gospel itself (Matthew 19:1-12). Q/A Included
Paul contends that, unlike our natural inclinations claim, we believers can display our weaknesses proudly as a testimony to the gracious work of Christ.
Amidst persecution and lowliness, the Apostle Paul did not lose heart because his gospel was not in arrogance of self, but Jesus' gospel of Salvation and redemption.
This final sermon in Leviticus speaks on the agricultural Sabbath and the year of Jubilee and the treatment of slaves. The penultimate chapter of Leviticus prophesies over the nation if Israel and what they can expect if they obey and/or disobey the law. The book closes with the consequences of vows unto the Lord.
This portion of Leviticus begins with the personal interactions a priest has in his normal life and continues into outlining the Hebrew calendar's appointed feasts. We see that the ministry of Jesus' life signposts according with this prophetic calendar in fulfillment. The final chapter of our evening declines once more with a blaspheming of the LORD's name and the consequences thereof. We are reminded that the gracious work of the Lord is consistently meant with the failure of mankind.
The old covenant was, like a mirror, only meant to display the extent of defect amongst God's people. In Christ, we have a new covenant that can also redeem and clean those who cannot save themselves (2 Cor 3:7-18).
Paul came to serve the Corinthian church without any written credentials. What established his authority was the lives that were changed because of his ministry in Christ. We, the church, should seek the same sort of credential--that of lives rather than certification.
God's holiness burns into our lives like an uncontainable forest fire; it touches upon every aspect of our existence. Whether it's our personal relationships, the economy, or the civility of our society, God's holiness affects these corners of our lives with profound consequence. Ultimately, this is all built upon who God is and what He's done. Living by God's character restores to Him the very opportunity to be the God over the planet, the creatures, and humanity itself.
The qualifications of the clean and the unclean are relatively foreign to us, but we see in this passage how God's order places the focus of life in a world in the midst of decay. God's redemption is a work where heavenly and holy life is cast into the midst of the dying.
This new sermon series outlines how a believer shapes his life's witness upon Jesus; rather than the cues of the world. The scent of a believer seems like death to the uninitiated, but it is the life to a believer (2 Corinthians 2:14-17)
When looking into the Levitical diet, we can often wonder how this is relevant at all. Is it merely hygienic? Is it merely discriminatory? Is is entirely arbitrary altogether? Ultimately, we see that the division of the clean/unclean and holy/unholy reminds us of the reverence of God Himself. In Christ, we see that God is not paintable, but His very holiness is what is contagious.
Paul's treatment of a repentant offender in the Corinthian church guides us toward an invaluable principle of the Church --forgiveness.
This week we close the Sacrificial ordinances and continue into the narrative of dedicating and inducting the Tabernacle and Priesthood into operation. Despite several preparatory procedures, tragic failures ensue. In these incidents, we see that Aaron has grown in the Lord and God has prepared him to serve the nation of Israel as their High Priest.
The standard of any Christian relationship should be love as modeled from Jesus Himself. Much like a physician's oath to do no harm, so is the expectation for members of the shared community that is Jesus' Church (2 Corinthians 1:12-2:13).
We proceed through the offerings this week. We delve into the the details of the Sin offering, the Guilt offering, and the Recompense offering. We ultimately see that rituals can't cover over our sins if our hearts aren't changed.
Paul sees his behavior before the Corinthians with unparalleled confidence. Is this out of arrogance, or is there something about relationships that he understands more deeply than we do? (2 Corinthians 1:12-1:22)
We often isolate ourselves when going through suffering. At times, this is because we don't want to burden others with our problems. Hidden beneath that seemingly selfless intention lies a mistaken notion of independence. Just as in Salvation, so as amongst the church, no believer is meant to navigate the issues of life alone. In our suffering, God reminds us that no one is self-reliant. 2 Corinthians 1:8-11
Leviticus opens with an index of the various offerings one can give to the LORD. This week, we look at the free will offerings, which consist of the Burnt (Ascension) Offering, the Grain (Gift) Offering, and the Peace (Fellowship) Offering. We see in these ordinances that the posture a worshipper must have before the LORD is costly, genuine, humble, and joyful. This is as true today as it was in the days of the Levitical Priesthood.
Scott Harrison is an employee in the tech industry and a congregation member at Calvary: the Hill. At our seminar, Scott shares some lessons he's learned navigating office politics and the party lifestyle that can often accompany a business atmosphere. In Christ, Scott has learned to take obstacles gracefully and see others with compassion. Scott advises we do the same.
Dr. Al Erisman is a professor at Seattle Pacific University and author of the book 'The Accidental Executive - Lessons on Business, Faith, and Calling From the Life of Joseph'. He is also a contributor to the Theology of Work Project, a full-bible commentary on day-to-day vocation. Our Saturday Session opened with his words on what professional lessons we learn from the life of Joseph in the book of Genesis.
Is there a purpose to the suffering in the life of a Christian? How can a believer find meaning amidst persecution, disappointment and depression? We see in 2nd Corinthians that Paul sees suffering as a catalyst to learning and drawing closer to Christ (2 Cor 1:3-7).
We close the book of Exodus with a repass of all of the instructions toward the construction of the Tabernacle, only this time, the execution of those instructions. The repetition of these instructions reminds us of the incredibly meticulous detailed obedience that was required in order to access the presence of the fellowship with God. Even so, the final verses of the book end with Moses not even being able to enter in. What can be done for the Israelites to have a representative enter in? Tune in to Leviticus to find out!
In this, our opening message to 2 Corinthians, we see how Paul attributes suffering to God's sovereignty. This Epistle may be one of Paul's most emotional as he confronts criticism of his apostleship, integrity, and even the genuineness of his faith in Jesus. 2 Corinthians 1:1-2
Moses is up on the mountain with God and the Israelites have thus lost their access to YHVH. To fill this void, they create an idol. This creates a dissemblance of the close covenant relationship between God and the Israelites. Moses finds himself in an intercessory position between God and the nation of Israel.
Salvation of the Christian is not to the credit of the believer, but to God alone. Not only that, but because of the magnanimity of the Cross, all that transpires on earth glorifies God Himself whether in His justice or by His mercy (1 Peter 4:10-14).
It is God's immeasurably compassionate grace that saves the desperate sinner. No one can boast for the salvation that was given him so freely (Ephesians 2:1-10)
All works of the Priesthood were laid out as a type of the High Priest to come. We see that a reality of the rituals of the priesthood involved refreshing the atonement and purification of a sinful and insufficient servant. What we see in the fulfillment that is Christ is the "once-for-all" ministry of a pure and sinless High Priest [Cross Reference - Hebrews 7:1-10:25].
The creation of the world was covered over 1 chapter, but the construction of the Tabernacle spans 13 chapters of detail-oriented instructions.The Tabernacle is clearly a matter of great importance. This portable temple bears a great reminder of the tension between the exclusive holiness of God and His great desire to dwell amongst His people. As the story of redemption endures, we see God's continued progressive effort to get His people inside; into His presence.
The Faith of a Christian placed in the sufficiency of Jesus to save is all he or she needs to be saved. The Reformers fought to keep the emphasis in the fact that faith does not need to be supplemented with good works for one to be saved.
We see in this extended list of property laws that God is fair. He cares for victims as well as the perpetrators. God shows loving wisdom toward restitution as well as in cases of penalties.
As emphasized in the reformation, salvation only comes through Jesus' sacrifice and not of any works of our own (1 Cor 1:30)
Not only are we the product of God's artistic work, but we are also are assigned our own unique works. In this sermon, we see how our relationship with Christ directly informs and equips us to accomplish that which has been assigned to us. (Ephesians 2:10)
Between the miraculous episodes of the Gospels, we see that there is a rhythm of rest in the life of Jesus. It is appropriate and legitimate for us, His disciples to take similar opportunities of rest for refreshment and consolation.
This is the first in our five-part series highlighting the five foundations of theological orthodoxy. In this part, we see the authority of Scripture and the implications thereof on the life of the believer. God's word is consuming and purifying like a fire; and hard and uncompromising like a hammer.
Here in Exodus, we see the introduction of the Law to the people and their God. We see that the Nation is given a law that exceeds their ability that they may operate as a nation dependent on their God.
In our day and age, the myriad of churches can enable the Christian to be far too selective and exclusive. In this last portion of 1 Corinthians, we are reminded that Jesus' death has saved the universal church. We need not agree with one another on every doctrinal point, but we must remember to draw the lines that Jesus drew for His church. (1 Cor 16:19-24)
As the Israelite continue to wander through the wilderness, God uses opposing nations and in laws to continue to train His people (and even begin to raise up a successor to Moses). When the people arrive at the foot of the Mountain of God, they shutter in the presence of the Lord and agree to serve Him.
The pivotal moment of the Red Sea crossing is just the beginning of a host of uncanny miracles God performs for the preservation of Israel. We see in this passage how God's generous slew of miracles was granted with the purpose to train Israel. God gave miracles to teach His people how to be appropriately dependent upon Him.
In this passage, we get an inside glimpse into the pastorate of the first century Corinthian church. This reminds us how integral local ministers are to the development of a church body. No external influence can ever replace the effective work of a brother or sister who is there (1 Corinthians 16:13-18).
Paul, who never had children of his own, exemplifies how men of the church are to be fathers in discipleship. Growth in the church comes from relationship. Men are to engage in discipleship of younger men and be brothers to the women of the church that the Family that is the Church may flourish in a diversity of strengths.
This week, we begin a new sermon series entitled 'The Glocal Church'. This series follows Paul's farewell epilogue in 1 Corinthians 16. In this passage, we see how vastly intricate the gospel's spreading involved various people groups representing several cultures, regions, and belief systems. As the Gospel message is universally relevant, we see the universal participation from a church that transcends all borders (1 Corinthians 16:1-12, cross references in Acts 18-21).
In the telling of the inaugural Passover and the Death of the Firstborn (the 10th plague), we see striking parallels to the Crucifixion. We come to understand that Jesus fulfills the requirements of the Passover Lamb.
In this passage, Paul touches on some of the expectations of the end times.We see that knowledge of our future shapes how we live at present with Christ (1st Corinthians 15:51-58).
In this passage of Exodus, we see God's divine judgment poured out on the land of Egypt because of one man's stubbornness. In the tension of man's will and God's, we see a multiplicity of complexity as it plays out in reality.
Paul has reinforced the importance of the resurrection in the life of a Christian. Next, he helps the Corinthian church to understand what how a life founded in the resurrection would appear. 1 Corinthians 15:35-50
This week, we close the 7 chapter section of Exodus that is the Prologue. By the end of this section, we will see tensions high and the game set. We see in this introductory portion that God is set on delivering Israel whom He now calls His firstborn son.
Justin Thomas is a pastor at Calvary: the Hill in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle Washington where he lives with his wife and 5 kids. He is also the founder of the CCUN.
Far be it from Pastors to ever deviate away from biblical preaching. As exemplified by the Apostle Paul, preaching is a dialogue founded in the scriptures as a provision of truth for any who will take it.
Sébastien Frappier is the founding pastor of Calvary Chapel Regeneration in one of Canada’s largest cities; Montreal.
Churches have a commendable goal of reaching out into the community to give the Gospel to the lost. Unfortunately, there are two frequent pitfalls -a compromise that is too seeker-friendly, or an uncompromising posture that only brings in other Christians. Sébastien contends that the Bible and only the Bible is the divinely-effective captivator of the lost and that all other tactics will disappoint.
Justin Thomas presides over the panel as Sébastien Frappier, Albert Lee, and Ray Bakke discuss how a church can serve their neighbors in an Urban Setting. Among the points discussed is respect for existing ministries and preservation of local culture.
Jordan Taylor has served as the Pastor of Calvary Wallingford since June 2011. Previously Jordan was Administrative Pastor at Calvary Fellowship and Director of Calvary Chapel Bible College Seattle in Mountlake Terrace.
Each Pastor has a grab bag of facts about the city where he is ministering. But what cannot be expressed through numbers on a wrap sheet is the heart one has for his city. God has given each Pastor a divine insight and vision for where He has placed them, it is important for ministers to take the time to walk through that insight in a purposeful way.
Ray Bakke is a gifted teacher, author and leader in the area of urban ministry. He is the founder of International Urban Associates.
When ministering in Chicago, IL, Ray read an article claiming that the Bible preaches rural life and condemns the urban metropolis. This spurred him on a lifelong conquest to find "a theology as big as Chicago". These are his findings that proved to him that God has a plan for the cities of our world.
Albert Lee is the Senior Pastor of Regeneration Church in Oakland California where he lives with his wife and four daughters.
Who is your greatest influence? How have they influenced you? Identifying this in your own life will be instrumental toward building your approach to discipleship. As ministers, we can apply the fruit we've gleaned from our mentors in new ways toward those whom we disciple.
The Seed of the Church is the Blood of the Martyrs. How does one deter a fanatic group of converts who don't fear death? Life under consideration of the coming resurrection changes every level of the believer's perspective (1st Corinthians 15:29-34).
Exodus begins right where Genesis left off. This sequel, contingent upon the message of its predecessor, shows the wiles of tyrannical men undermined by a thoughtful God, some unassuming women, and an abandoned baby.
Among the many questions raised regarding the Holy Week events, one question is often overlooked -- Why did Jesus resurrect? We understand the meaning and need for the Cross, but we may fail to recognize the paramount significance of the Resurrection. On this Easter Sunday, we see why Jesus is the First Fruits of the Resurrection. (1st Corinthians 15:20-28)
Paul continues his dissertation on the importance of the Resurrection of Jesus. In this passage, the message is that all Christianity is founded upon Jesus' ability to overcome the grave. (1 Corinthians 15:12-20)
As we close the book of Genesis, we find that the book was not about Joseph, neither was it about Jacob, and not even about Judah. We see that the book of Genesis is ultimately a prequel. It is a book that not only looks forward to the book of Exodus, but is even more so looking forward to a coming everlasting King who will bless the entire world in His majesty.
In the second year of the famine, Jacob sends his sons to the land of Egypt, where it is rumored that there are storehouses of grain. Unbeknownst to ten sons of Jacob, they are seeking grain from the very brother they had sold into slavery thirteen years before. Joseph strategically tries his brothers' characters to see whether they remain as treacherous as they once were.
Paul reminds the Corinthian church not to forsake the resurrection of Jesus and also not to doubt it. The exhortation to the Corinthians still rings true today, our hope is placed in the miracle of Jesus' life after death. 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
In this controversial passage of 1st Corinthians, Paul makes order in the church gathering a paramount issue. 1st Corinthians 14:26-40
Despite Joseph's outstanding character, it seems the worst continues to befall him. How can horrible things happening to a good man possibly be God's plan? Is this story even about Joseph at all?
Colleen RJC Bratton, Sam Vance, and Justin Thomas answer inquiries from the audience.
We are working on remastering this audio and will post a superior version as it is ready.
Sam Vance is an American interdisciplinary artist who intersects and blurs the lines between visual and performance mediums. He was trained at the Art Institute of Seattle, Seattle Pacific University, Gage Academy of Art, and with classical painter Gregorio Larsen in Spain. He holds an MFA in Interdisciplinary Art from Goddard College. He is currently the interim Associate Director of Education & Outreach and Touring Director for Taproot Theatre. www.vancearts.com
There is a rich legacy along with the history of the Church. Today, there is an important calling for the artists of the body of Christ.
Colleen is an artist who splits her time between Seattle, WA and Brooklyn, NY. She graduated from Seattle University with a degree in Visual Arts and Philosophy. She works with found cloth and acrylic on panel to depict the dynamic relationship between self and space over time. www.colleenrjcbratton.com
attached .pdf is the slideshow that follow's Colleen's presentation.
Proceeding further in the discussion over spiritual gifts, Paul compares the gift of tongues against the gift of prophecy. He contends that the gift of prophecy is more useful for the church because it is a gift which, when manifested in a gathering of the Church, all can understand. 1 Corinthians 14:13-25
Jacob's fourteen years owed to Laban are up and he's finally ready to head off on his own along with his two wives, two concubines and (at least) twelve children. After much divine provision, Jacob still insists upon living life his own way. In this week's study through Genesis, we see the stark contrast between the fruit of Jacob's provision and that of God's.
Whether Prophecy, Healing, or Tongues, the gifts of the Holy Spirit are meant to build up the body of believers toward the unified goal of spreading the Gospel. 1 Corinthians 14:1-12
Thus far unique to Jacob, his testimony is one of reluctant surrender to God's will. Jacob (along with the rest of the figures in this passage) is always seeking to provide for himself whenever opportunity arises. In turn, what Jacob finds is that God's promises exceed the yielding of any posed opportunity. Genesis 27:1-29:26
Isaac inherits the covenant God made to Abraham. We see that along with the faith of his father, Isaac also shares in some of Abraham's faults. We learn through this passage how God successfully accomplishes His will in the midst of our faithlessness. Genesis 24:1-26:35
Paul encourages the Corinthian church to desire the best gifts from the Holy Spirit, yet he spurs them further to purse that which he refers to as a more excellent way. Paul shares that love is eternally relevant and will never pass away. Among Faith, Hope, and Love, the greatest is Love. (1 Corinthians 13:1-13)
Paul seems to contradict his claim that there is no greater gift amongst those the Holy Spirit has given. Now, Paul ranks a small group of the gifts only to say that there still remains a better way. We see in this passage a reenforcement that the diversity of the church body is God's intended plan. 1 Corinthians 12:27-31
As we begin to close the book of Abraham's life, we see Abraham falling into the same erroneous sins of his path, but we also see him pass God's final test of faith. Isaac upon Moriah inherently looks forward to a greater Son to come.
Glen and Susie are founders of Greentwig Conciliators (greentwig.org). They joined us for this evening's dinner to share with us the importance of listening in our marriages.
Twenty-Four years have passed since God has promised to make Abram into a great nation. In that time, the barren Sarai has now passed into a postmenopausal age and the promise no longer seems attainable. Despite Sarai's and Abram's attempt to realize God's word by their own attempts, heavenly messengers visit Abram with other plans. Meanwhile, Lot is also visited by heavenly messengers. These two narratives run parallel but divert and ultimately lead to polar opposite outcomes.
Paul compares the church to a human body to show the need for diversity in the gifts of the church. Not having your favorite gift doesn't remove your importance from the body in fact, there is no one in the church that you can say is unnecessary. God has designed the church just the way he wants it; lovingly working together.
WE APOLOGIZE, THIS RECORDING WAS INTERRUPTED BY TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES. THIS IS ONLY A PARTIAL RECORDING.
God's redemptive plan hones in on one man, Abram of Mesopotamia. Abram (soon to be Abraham) is often hailed as a perfect man, but we begin to see that his faith, much like ours, develops progressively after failures as well as successes. Serious failures notwithstanding, the faithfulness of the Abrahamic Covenant is contingent upon God's work; not Abram's. Genesis 12:1-15:20
There's something about the human perspective that makes us want to categorize and prioritize every existing group. We bring this same tendency in our consideration of spiritual gifts. We fail to understand that the very confession of Jesus' lordship is a spiritual gift, the diversity of gifts is consistent with even the triune nature of God. This diversity is not meant to be prioritized, but to be a picture of God's personality imparted to His Church for the sake of others. 1st Corinthians 12:1-11
Jesus is the host of the communion table; this is why we call it the Lord's Supper. As such, there are Christlike characteristics that the Church should bear when practicing communion. Malpractice of communion puts us on the wrong side of the Cross. 1 Corinthians 11:17-33
As Noah's family repopulates the world, we find that sin has not been washed away in the flood. Man's pride increases on a global scale uniting mankind toward a self-exalting pride, the correction of which will not come until the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
This week, we navigate the flood narrative. Genesis 6:9 through 9:17 bear the motif of rest, remembering, and covenant. Knowing the justice of God's wrath, what manner of person ought we to be?
A long-debated and controversial portion of 1st Corinthians, Chapter 11:2-16 deals with gender roles in a first century, culturally-diverse demographic. What of this exhortation are we expected to uphold?
This introductory message lays the foundation for our seminar, reminding the church that injustice, though not the main drive for the Church, cannot be something that the Church ignores. As recipients of the gracious love of God, we have a role engaging in the correction of the many evil's of the world.
Amanda is the founder and executive director of Real Escape from the Sex Trade (REST), a faith-based, non profit organization providing rescue and support for sexually exploited young women. Amanda uses case examples to tell of the existing presence of the human trafficking here in the northwest. How can the church aide the offenders and victims of this abusive industry?
Amanda Hightower, Trevor "This'l" Tyler, Judah Ivy, and Justin Thomas answer the congregation's questions regarding the topics discussed at the seminar.
Guest Speaker, Trevor "This'l Tyler is a Christian Hip Hop artist living in Missouri. His word for us is that basic presuppositions and disassociation blinds this generation of our own racial barriers and discrimination. Each of us as individual believers is a representation of the Church Body, our Savior, and Mankind. We must have a standard that transcends racism and all prejudice.
Guest Speaker, Judah Ivy is one of the founding members of the Seattle Abolitionist Society. Judah shares the statistical presence of aborted pregnancies in the greater Seattle Area and what the Church is currently doing to help at-risk mothers.
As Adam's legacy of sin prevails, the same defect is shown inherent in his children. Depravity deepens and death does not relent. With the curse of sin and death upon mankind, we're left to wonder: "if sin is crouching at our doors, can we master it? Can we resist the temptation?"
It could seem that a radical encounter with Jesus would most certainly send a new believer to distant lands proclaiming the good news. Indeed it might, however, in the case of the woman at the well, we see that the same sort of encounter can create revival within a very close proximity. The mission field doesn't begin in some distant lands; the mission field is right here. John 4:26-38
Too frequently does it seem like the Christian mission happens somewhere "out there". In truth, the command upon which hangs all of the law and the prophets--to love God and our neighbor happens here and now. Luke 10:25-37
The first man, the first woman, the first sin, the first curse. In this installment of our Through the Bible, we zero in on the consequences of sin and God's proclamation of the first Gospel.
The Church is God's plan for helping individual Christians to fulfill the Christian life. But what is "the Church"? Ephesians 4 explains that we are the Church and lays out the contours of biblical ministry. Ephesians 4:11-15
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth". So begins the revelation of God to mankind. This first installment of the Through the Bible explores some fundamental principles including God's triune nature and Man being made in the image of God. Genesis 1:1-2:3
By means of the Cross, Jesus has reclaimed the throne of Earth. However, the full consummation of His reign is not yet manifest. Why this gap in Jesus' dynasty and what are we to do in this time between times and place between places? Titus 2:8-3:11
The difference between Grace and Legalism is far more than what we are and aren't permitted to do. The freedom of Grace gives room for exceeding the status quo, whereas legalism inherently encourages the bare minimum performance. It's important for us to remember that we aren't to obey to make our God love us, but that our God has loved us first which excites obedience in response of that love. 1st Corinthians 10:23-11:1
When we dabble in worldliness, we let unworthy parties in on that which is meant to be exclusively Christ's. Our lives, for which Jesus died to purchase, have room only for one Lord. If we permit to consorting with the world, we come against the God who deserves the throne over our hearts. Are we stronger than Him? 1 Corinthians 10:15-22
Temptation, as we all know, is real and severe. In this passage, we learn that temptation is ubiquitous and yet, not unendurable. In the face of temptation, we are weak; but present with us, God is faithful. 1 Corinthians 10:12-14
This First installment of the 'Warning' series introduces us to some of the unassuming pitfalls for believers --specifically the danger of presuming security. Paul refers to four different accounts in the Old Testament where, even in the presence of miracles, mankind seems always to veer toward rebellion. This sermon concerns 1 Corinthians 10:1-11.
Understanding the aim of the Christian life transforms the way we make decision about all things. Like an athlete we choose self control so that we might run the race to win.
We need to follow the example of Paul who was so rooted in his Christian identity that he could adapt in different cultures to effectively impart the Christian message. We should use our freedom in Christ to be a servant of all.
Here Paul shows us from personal experience that Love is more rewarding than demanding your rights. Is it possible that we are settling for merely our rights when God has something better for us?
In the latter half of 1 Corinthians 8, Paul advises the Church that their diet is not a question of Christian permission, but of loving consideration of our brothers. Just as Jesus laid down His rights for the well-being of the vulnerable, so should we for the sake of the younger in faith and knowledge.
This first installment of the Hearts Over Clubs sermon series challenges the excuse of engaging in an activity because you may "know" that it's permissible. Instead, Paul contends that pure knowledge just inflates the ego, but love gives way for the building of Jesus' Church.
In the last installment of the Great Divorce sermon series, we see that the root of enslaving self-victimization is unforgiveness. We learn from this portion of the Sermon on the Mount that the salvation Jesus offers His church is rooted in divine forgiveness that should overflow in to earthly relationships.
Jesus speaks seriously of sin and calls us to recognize that dealing with it calls for drastic measures. Learn how and why to deal with our sins.
One of Jesus' hardest sayings reflects the truth behind one of Lewis' most tragic characters. Jesus demands He be first and only in our life for our sakes and for the sake of those we love.
Lewis' character the controlling wife challenges us to recognize how easy it is to mistake our self-serving reality for sacrifice and love. Only if we understand God as a humble servant, will our ambition to control be broken.
C.S. Lewis' character the Artist is a man experience the same drift we all experience, from the love of the told to the love of the telling. See how Jesus' call to discipleship radically saves us from ourselves.
The problem with moralism, which approaches God assuming we are good enough to do so, is that its irrational and destructive to others. In His parable, Jesus teaches us a better way.
Paul provides his reasoning for recommending the single life as a good option for Christians. In doing so, he challenges all Christian's to reassess how they make their decisions in life.
When God calls us to himself in salvation, he also calls us in the midst of our current circumstances. Our current relations, culture and work are the place where God's will begins.
Understanding the Bible's teaching on Divorce requires both an understanding of Marriage as well as an understanding of how the Living God brings hope into our current circumstances, whatever they be.
When we understand what sex was made for, we can make sense Bible's consistent regulation of it to the covenant of marriage. Understanding the purpose of sex also helps us to understand why its so often simultaneously addictive and unfulfilling.
The Guilt Offering was the only sacrifice that required restitution to be made. In it we learn about the obligations we have to God and man and how Jesus fulfilled those obligations in his death.
The Sin Offering helps us to deepen our understanding of what the Bible calls sin. That deeper understanding gives us a greater appreciation for what God has done with our Sin through Jesus Christ.
The peace offering was the pinnacle of the sacrificial system. The goal of the tabernacle, and Israel's worship is the same as the goal of Jesus' coming: so that we may be in relationship with God. We shouldn't settle for anything less then the seat Christ' has given us at the table.
The Grain offering, or more literally the Gift offering is ultimately about generosity. We learn how selfishness can be overcome through recognizing how Jesus gave to us to greatly that it opens our hearts and our hands.
The burnt offering was Israel's most common sacrifice. Unique among the other offerings the animal was burned in its entirety upon the altar. Join us as we learn what this offering says about the human condition, God's solution in Jesus Christ and our worship today.