Goshen CRC Sermons: Recent Episodes
Goshen Church (Goshen Christian Reformed Church) (NY)
Audio messages from Goshen Christian Reformed Church (Goshen CRC), led by Pastor Sam Sutter. We are a community church in the Hudson Valley north of New York City. Visit us online https://Goshen.Church for more information and message resources.
It's Ascension Sunday and we're taking a look at who is in control of this chaotic world. You'll be encouraged and uplifted to hear how the Psalm 2 talks about God's response to this world. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
It’s GEMS Sunday and we’ll get a sample of what they’ve been learning this year. The book of Esther is a fascinating teaching about how God’s providence works in what looks like coincidence. This week will help you to trust God more because he is trustworthy even when it sounds like he is silent. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
What do you do in suffering? – This week we’ll look at James 5:13-19 and discover how to hang on when all you can do is pray. Join us as we discover God’s hope. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
We wait for Jesus to come back. This week we’ll look at James 5:7-12 and think about what it means to wait patiently for God’s promises to come true. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
We fall the hardest when we think we don’t need God. This week we look at what James says to suffers about the damage we cause that can be made better through repentance. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
The Resurrection of Jesus changes everything. Join us for a message of hope and life as we look at how Easter unfolded in the plan of God Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
This week our friend Rev. Dave Lyman brings God’s word through the history of Salvation. You won’t want to miss the fascinating details he brings to life pointing to Jesus and to changed lives. Speaker: Rev Dave Lyman
Worship produces a humility that trust God even when plans fall apart. Speaking of plans, James this week teaches on how to hold on to plans loosely and God firmly. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
James 4 does a deep explanation of why societies (even churches) can be so full of conflicts, toxicity, and hurts. But then God offers a simple path toward change. And presents a powerful way forward toward the better way. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
This week we’re learning from James 3:1–18 about the avoidable collateral damage from suffering that can make things go from bad to worse. We’re talking about what you say, when you’re in a storm. And James focuses on the power of words and how true faith can protect you from the damage that so many people fall victim to. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
You've probably noticed that the idea of being part of a church is changing these days. It's almost like church is going through its own 'Blockbuster' moment. But God’s Word has some exciting insights to share. In this week's message, we're diving deep into what church really means (and trust us, it might surprise you!). Join Pastor Sam Sutter as we rediscover our place in God's community -- and this journey promises to both uplift and challenge you. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Coasting is easy, living a life of making a difference comes with push-back. And when you’re willing to face seen opposition out of hope in an often-unseen God, JESUS calls you BLESSED. Today we’ll discover what Jesus says about persecution (and why it might be good) and how push back can make you more resilient as you follow God faithfully. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
What does Jesus say God’s kids look like? – You might guess, "holy", or "loving", or "righteous"… but Jesus goes in a different direction. Children of God are people who learn to, and work at making peace. Join Pastor Sam Sutter as we discover what Jesus says about peacemakers and how they’re happy, blessed and live a fulfilled purposeful life. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Deep down we all long to see God. Even people who don’t believe in God have some hard things to tell him. This week we look at what Jesus says about how to get on a pathway to seeing God. It might surprise you, and the path to change might be challenging, but Jesus makes a promise that may change how you think about living in the presence of God. Join Pastor Sam Sutter as we look at the 6th Beatitude together. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Merciful people are happy people. It’s when you see people through eyes of grace, and treat them with more kindness that you deserve that you start to have better relationships, mental health, and somehow the Blessing of God. Join Pastor Sam Sutter at Goshen Church to learn how mercy is a powerful diagnostic tool leading to a better spiritual life. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
We all have a built-in hunger. The feeling that something is missing and we can be filled… but what we try and fill out emptiness with can hurt us more than help us. Hungering for the wrong things is the sin of covetousness, but JESUS gives us a better way to be filled, happy and blessed. Sermon Notes This is an upside-down world, or perhaps a right-way-up world; and Jesus is saying that with his work It’s starting to come true. This is an announcement, not a philosophical analysis of the world. It’s about something That’s starting to happen, not about a general truth of life. It is gospel: good news, not good advice… The word for ‘wonderful news’ is often translated ‘blessed’, and part of the point is that this is God’s wonderful news. God is acting in and through Jesus to turn the world upside down, to turn Israel upside down, to pour out lavish ‘blessings’ on all who now turn to him and accept the new thing that he is doing. (This list is sometimes called ‘the Beatitudes’, because the Latin word ‘beatus’ means ‘blessed’.) But the point is not to offer a list of what sort of people God normally blesses. The point is to announce God’s new covenant. – N.T. Wright Exodus 20:17 (NIV) 17 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.” Matthew 5:6 (NIV) 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Psalm 107:4–9 (NIV) 4 Some wandered in desert wastelands, finding no way to a city where they could settle. 5 They were hungry and thirsty, and their lives ebbed away. 6 Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. 7 He led them by a straight way to a city where they could settle. 8 Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, 9 for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. It is with good reason that this is the fourth beatitude. The man marked by poverty of spirit (5:3), who grieves over sin personal and social (5:4), and approaches God and man with meekness (5:5), must also be characterized as hungry and thirsty for righteousness (5:6). It is not that he wants to be a little bit better, still less that he thinks of righteousness as an optional luxury to add to his other graces; rather, he hungers and thirsts for it. He cannot get along without righteousness; it is as important to him as food and drink. – D.A. Carson In the Gospel of Matthew, the term “righteousness” normally refers to actual personal righteousness that results from one’s relationship with God, that is, the righteousness of sanctification rather than the righteousness of justification (Matt 1:19; 3:15; 5:10,20,45; 6:1,33; 9:13; 10:41; 13:17,43,49; 20:4; 21:32; 23:28–29,35; 25:37,46; 27:19). – Quarles Matthew 6:1 (NIV) “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. Matthew 6:33 (NIV) 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Here’s your assignment – next time you hunger or thirst – when you see one of the 10,000 ads you see today trying to convince you that you aren’t, you don’t have, you haven’t experienced enough. Next time you’re scrolling, browsing, comparing. Try this… instead of staying dry or trying to quench your thirst for more…. with more. – Try this. Put your head and heart to a longing for God’s kingdom and righteousness. Speaker: Rev. Samuel Sutter
we welcomed Pastor Dave to teach on following Jesus at Goshen CRC Speaker: Pastor Dave Lyman
We’re looking at what Jesus says to do when corrupt, selfish people get you down, discourage you or when you find yourself wanting to compromise your ethics or integrity because the bad guys seem to get ahead. It’s a message about trusting God even when it feels like what he’s called you to do feels below your potential and you feel undervalued or appreciated by the people around you. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Pastor Tim Straight dives deeper into what a true relationship with Christ is. Speaker: Pastor Tim Strait
This morning we’re looking at the heart of the teachings of Jesus and discovering something that may shock you about sadness. Jesus makes the claim that the incredible feeling of sadness can power you to a better life. Today we’re going to look at this teaching and learn how to use disappointment and sadness as a gateway to stronger faith, better decisions and emotional health. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
People who are poor in spirit are happy and blessed – is what Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:1 – which is the opposite of what we think. We think that people who are upbeat, encouraged and confident are happy and better off. But there’s something about being humble, even if it’s humiliating to get there that sets you up for a better future.
Matthew 5:1–3 (NIV) Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount 5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them. The Beatitudes 5:3–12pp—Lk 6:20–23 He said: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Daniel 7:13–14 (NIV) 13 “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. 14 He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed. Psalm 86:1–5 Listen, LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Protect my life, for I am faithful. You are my God; save Your servant who trusts in You. Be gracious to me, Lord, for I call to You all day long. Bring joy to Your servant’s life, because I turn to You, Lord. For You, Lord, are kind and ready to forgive, rich in faithful love to all who call on You. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
So many of us go through life needy and under-equipped – we feel powerless, we feel unequipped, we feel hopeless and it’s because we don’t realize what God gives us. But today we’re going to look at some of the benefits of God’s glory that we are given generously but need to receive. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
We’ve been talking for weeks about how badly we need to see God’s glory. Moses, Isaiah and more have taught us that we need desperately to look up from our navels and catch sight of how BIG God is. When we do -- if we could start to grasp how powerful, holy, sovereignty -loving – if you could see God, you would be more able to live your life on mission, with a purpose, and foundation and hope for whatever GOD may have for you. Today we’re going to look at a fascinating link between complaints, God’s glory and a way of seeing God’s glory that may surprise you.
God’s Glory, Knowing God - Habakkuk 2:14 Review: God’s GLORY Changes you for the better if you could only see it Habakkuk 1:2 (NIV) 2 How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save? Habakkuk 1:5–6 (NIV) 5 “Look at the nations and watch— and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told. 6 I am raising up the Babylonians, that ruthless and impetuous people, who sweep across the whole earth to seize dwellings not their own. Habakkuk 1:12–13a (NIV) 12 Lord, are you not from everlasting? My God, my Holy One, you will never die. You, Lord, have appointed them to execute judgment; you, my Rock, have ordained them to punish. 13 Your eyes are too pure to look on evil; you cannot tolerate wrongdoing. Why then do you tolerate the treacherous? Habakkuk 2:2–3 (NIV) 2 Then the Lord replied: “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it 3 For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay. Habakkuk 2:12–14 (NIV) 12 “Woe to him who builds a city with bloodshed and establishes a town by injustice! 13 Has not the Lord Almighty determined that the people’s labor is only fuel for the fire, that the nations exhaust themselves for nothing? God’s Glory in Knowledge (to know God is to see God’s glory) Habakkuk 2:14 (NIV) 14 For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. God’s knowledge shines to us through JESUS. 2 Corinthians 4:5–6 (NIV) 5 For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. We See Jesus’s Glory through Scripture Luke 24:25–27 (NIV) 25 He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
This is a peak at one of the most disruptive stories in the Old Testament and we'll see what God showed to people who were fearful, worried and uncertain about the future. And you might be surprised to discover what God shows to people who are fearful with really good reasons to fear the future.
God’s Glory, Our Service-Isaiah 6:1-10 Isaiah 6:1–13 (NIV) Isaiah’s Commission 6 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. 3 And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” 4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. 5 “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” 6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. 7 With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.” 8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” So why is it significant that Isaiah’s call occurs in the year King Uzziah dies? I believe it is because it is with Uzziah’s death that Judah’s truly hopeless situation emerges. The date is approximately 740 B.C. By this time the Assyrian emperor Tiglath-Pileser III has clearly established himself as a military conqueror to be feared. But it seems likely that for Judah, as long as the powerful Uzziah was on the throne (even with his son Jotham acting as the front man), the immediacy of the threat was blurred. But when Uzziah was removed from the scene, the danger could no longer be ignored. Jotham was no strong man, and possibly Jotham’s son Ahaz was already under the control of a pro-Assyrian party in the government. What could possibly be done? Isaiah’s vision, at least for him, was a reorienting of his moral compass. The king was dead? Who is the king in this world anyway? “My eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty!” (6:5). – John Oswold Our problem is not the size or difficulty of the things we face. No, our problem is [being blind to God’s GLORY] and the havoc it wreaks on our daily living. [Not seeing how big God is] will cause you to fear things that you need to defeat. [It] will cause you to deny reality because you are afraid to face what is true. [Thinking that God is small] will cause you to fret over people and situations. [It] will cause you to attempt to control what you cannot control because you think it is out of control. Being blind to God’s glory will never lead you anywhere good. – Paul David Tripp But note the surprising nature of the commission. Does God truly not want his people to be healed? Has he predestined them for destruction? That would surely be a misreading of the book as a whole. God clearly does want to heal his people and promises to do so. If nothing else, the promises of chapters 2 and 4 make that clear. But those promises are not alone. They are representative of many other promises throughout the book. So what could Isaiah 6:9–10 possibly mean? Perhaps the point is this: Suppose Isaiah had chosen to be among the false prophets; suppose he had preached a message of affirmation and encouragement that did not address the people’s sin directly. It is possible he could have gained a large number of followers, people who were “healed” and convinced that they ought to make more of a place for “God” in their lives. But would this superficial healing have any long-term effects on the destiny of the nation? Only detrimental ones! And we can be sure we would never have heard of that Isaiah. Rather, Isaiah is called upon to preach a message that, given the already-hardened hearts of his generation and several of the following, will only push them farther away from God. But some will turn, among them faithful followers of Isaiah, who will preserve his words until the day when the cauterizing fires of the Exile fall and there will finally be a generation willing to listen. Then real healing will result, and the stage will be set for the promised Messiah to come. So Isaiah’s calling is not to success as the world counts success, but to faithfulness. – John Oswold Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
We have the amazing privilege of telling two amazing stories from the Bible and seeing what God says to people who feel like they’re having a hard time keeping their heads above water because suffering and obstacles feel overwhelming. I’m excited about this because God gives each believer something to help when we need help because we feel smaller than our problems.Conversation opened. 1 read message.Skip to contentUsing Goshen Christian Reformed Church Mail with screen readers1 of 2PodcastInboxSamuel SutterAttachmentsMay 25, 2023, 11:12 AM (4 days ago)to meGod's Glory - How the Holy Spirit Gives you ComfortWe have the amazing privilege of telling two amazing stories from the Bible and seeing what God says to people who feel like they’re having a hard time keeping their heads above water because suffering and obstacles feel overwhelming. I’m excited about this because God gives each believer something to help when we need help because we feel smaller than our problems. One attachment • Scanned by GmailLove it!Thanks for sharing!Thanks, I'll check it out!God’s Glory, The Spirit’s Comfort: Isaiah 43:2 Isaiah 43:1–7 (NIV) Israel’s Only Savior But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob,he who formed you, Israel:“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;I have summoned you by name; you are mine.2 When you pass through the waters,I will be with you;and when you pass through the rivers,they will not sweep over you.When you walk through the fire,you will not be burned;the flames will not set you ablaze.3 For I am the Lord your God,the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;I give Egypt for your ransom,Cush and Seba in your stead.4 Since you are precious and honored in my sight,and because I love you,I will give people in exchange for you,nations in exchange for your life.5 Do not be afraid, for I am with you;I will bring your children from the eastand gather you from the west.6 I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’and to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’Bring my sons from afarand my daughters from the ends of the earth—7 everyone who is called by my name,whom I created for my glory,whom I formed and made.” Heidelberg Catechism Q & A 1What is your only comfort in life and death?That I am not my own, 1 but belong with body and soul, both in life and in death, 2 to my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ. 3 He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood, 4 and has set me free from all the power of the devil. 5 He also preserves me in such a way 6 that without the will of my heavenly Father not a hair can fall from my head; 7 indeed, all things must work together for my salvation. 8 Therefore, by his Holy Spirit he also assures me of eternal life 9 and makes me heartily willing and ready from now on to live for him. 10 1 1 Cor 6:19, 20; 2.Rom 14:7-9; 3.1 Cor 3:23; Tit 2:14.; 4.1 Pet 1:18, 19; 1 Jn 1:7; 2:2.; 5.Jn 8:34-36; Heb 2:14, 15; 1 Jn 3:8.; 6.Jn 6:39, 40; 10:27-30; 2 Thess 3:3; 1 Pet 1:5. ; 7.Mt 10:29-31; Lk 21:16-18 ; 8.Rom 8:28. 9.Rom 8:15, 16; 2 Cor 1:21, 22; 5:5; Eph 1:13, 14.; 10.Rom 8:14. Acts 2:1–6 (NIV) Page 1056 in Pew bibleThe Holy Spirit Comes at PentecostWhen the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit… Lord’s Day 20 Q & A 53 Q. What do you believe concerning “the Holy Spirit”?A. First, that the Spirit, with the Father and the Son, is eternal God.1 Second, that the Spirit is given also to me,2 so that, through true faith, he makes me share in Christ and all his benefits,3 comforts me,4 and will remain with me forever.5 1 Gen. 1:1-2; Matt. 28:19; Acts 5:3-4 2 1 Cor. 6:19; 2 Cor. 1:21-22; Gal. 4:6 3 Gal. 3:14 4 John 15:26; Acts 9:31 5 John 14:16-17; 1 Pet. 4:14May28th.txtDisplaying May28th.txt. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
When I’m at the end of myself, I know I need something – but I don’t always know what I need – and I don’t– because when I’m overwhelmed – I don’t even know what could possibly help. – Today we’re going to tell two stories about what God gives to people who feel overwhelmed, under-resourced and insecure in the face of massive challenges – and I’m excited because if you ever find yourself like the people in these stories – today God is going to tell you what helps. God’s Glory, Christ’s Goodness: Ex 33What God Gave Moses When he felt overwhelmed, under-resourced an insecure in the face of massive challenges:Exodus 33:12–23 (NIV) Moses and the Glory of the Lord12 Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’ 13 If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”14 The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”15 Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. 16 How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?”17 And the Lord said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.”18 Then Moses said, “Now show me your glory.”19 And the Lord said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 20 But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.”21 Then the Lord said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. 22 When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. 23 Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.” What God Gave the Early Church when they felt overwhelmed, under-resourced an insecure in the face of massive challenges:Acts 1:7–11 (NIV)7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” Where you look for [glory] will shape the direction of your life. It just makes sense that your source of awe will control you, your decisions, and the course your story takes. If you live in awe of material things, for example, you will spend lots of money acquiring a pile of material stuff; to afford your ever-increasing pile, you will have to work a lot. You will also tend to attach your identity and inner sense of peace to material possessions, spending way too much time collecting and maintaining them. If material things are your awe source, you will neglect other things of value and won’t ever be fully satisfied, because these material things just don’t have the capacity to satisfy your awe-longing heart. Yes, your house will be big, your car will be luxurious, and you will be surrounded with beautiful things, but your contentment in areas that really count will be small. [Glory] stimulates the greatest joys and deepest sorrows in us all. Here’s a simple way to do a personal awe check. Where do you experience your biggest moments of happiness and your darkest moments of sadness? What angers you or crushes you with disappointment? What motivates you to continue or makes you feel like quitting? What do you tend to envy in the lives of others, or where does jealousy make you bitter? What makes you think your life is worth living or causes you to feel like your life is a waste? When you say, “If only I had _______,” how do you fill in the blank? What are you willing to make sacrifices for, and what in your life just doesn’t seem worth the effort? Look at your highest joys and deepest sorrows, and you will find where you reach for awe. Take anger, for example. Think of how little of your anger in the last couple months had anything at all to do with the kingdom of God. You’re not generally angry because things are in the way of God and his kingdom purposes. You’re angry because something or someone has gotten in the way of something you crave, something you think will inspire contentment, satisfaction, or happiness in you. Your heart is desperate to be inspired, and you get mad when your pursuits are blocked. Where you look for awe will fundamentally control the thoughts and emotions of your heart in ways you normally don’t even realize. – Paul David Tripp Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
God really really cares for his people. Scripture compares the glory of his care to a mother’s love and compassion. You might be shocked to read that God is also described in motherly ways doing things you wouldn’t expect our Father to do. – Which is good news. Because sometimes you need a warrior, you need to look at your obstacles and say – but my dad is way bigger than your dad. But sometimes (lots of the time) you need a hug, comfort and love. God gives both – and we’re going to talk about how the caring nurturing side of his glory is described. God's Glory - Shown in A Mother’s CareAwe of God will make you feel small, and that is good because that is what you and I are. Awe of God will make you feel unworthy for the task. It will confront you with a healthy inability. Not only does that sense produce a trust in God’s wisdom, power, and grace, it also makes you humble, approachable, patient, kind, passionate, and willing. When you are blown away by the glory of the Savior and his cross, you will be driven to that cross for the character and strength you need to represent the Savior well in the lives of those around you. You won’t be so quick to pontificate. You will be quick to admit your need. You will be obsessed not by how much people respect you, but by how much they worship their Redeemer. Fear is only ever defeated by fear. Only awe of God can ever rob horizontal awe of its power. Awe of God puts you in your place in ministry, and it will keep you there. Once you know who God is and rightly assess who you are, you will be able to minister with humility, hope, and courage. – Paul David Tripp Hosea 11:3-4 God described as a motherGod: “Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk, I who took them up in my arms; but they did not know that I healed them. I led them with cords of human kindness, with bands of love. I was to them like those who lift infants to their cheeks. I bent down to them and fed them.”Hosea 13:8 God described as a mother bear“Like a bear robbed of her cubs, I will attack them and tear them asunder…”Deuteronomy 32:11-12 God described as a mother eagle“Like the eagle that stirs up its nest, and hovers over its young, God spreads wings to catch you, and carries you on pinions.”Isaiah 66:13 God as a comforting motherGod: “As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.”Isaiah 49:15 God compared to a nursing motherGod: “Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you.”Isaiah 42:14 God as a woman in laborGod: “For a long time I have held my peace, I have kept myself still and restrained myself; now I will cry out like a woman in labor, I will gasp and pant.”Psalm 131:2 God as a Mother“But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; my soul is like the weaned child that is with me.”Matthew 23:37 and Luke 13:34 God as a Mother HenJesus: “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!”Luke 15:8-10 God as woman looking for her lost coinJesus: “Or what woman having ten silver coins, is she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors saying, ‘Rejoice with me…”“True, our Lord for his part becomes more familiar with us than anything else. He is like a nurse, like a mother. He does not just compare himself with fathers, who are kind and good-natured to their children. He says he is more than a mother, or a nurse. He uses such familiarity so that we shall not be like [insensitive strangers] anymore. – John Calvin Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
I get overwhelmed when my problems are bigger than what I can handle, but what helps me is seeing big solutions. Today we’re looking at Psalm 18 – which is a song of praise about God's glory in despair – and I can’t wait to talk about it -because when you can see God’s glory, (when you see how big your solutions are) your problems – whatever they are become beatable.Psalm 18: When God is Big (Problems are small)I get overwhelmed when my problems are bigger than what I can fix, and what helps me is seeing big solutions that can help. The Problems in Life That Bring DistressPsalm 18:4–5 (NIV)4 The cords of death entangled me;the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me.5 The cords of the grave coiled around me;the snares of death confronted me. For the director of music. Of David the servant of the Lord. He sang to the Lord the words of this song when the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. Psalm 18 is a close copy of the composition that appears in 2 Samuel 22:1–51. The psalm is an extended hymn of praise to Yahweh for his deliverance of the psalmist from a host of enemies. The theme of Yahweh as “rock,” “fortress,” and “refuge” appears at significant points throughout the psalm (18:2, 30–31, 46). Psalm 18:6 (NIV) 6 In my distress I called to the Lord;I cried to my God for help.From his temple he heard my voice;my cry came before him, into his ears. God Didn’t Show Answers, Plans or Solution – God shows Himself.Psalm 18:7–11 (NIV)7 The earth trembled and quaked,and the foundations of the mountains shook;they trembled because he was angry.8 Smoke rose from his nostrils;consuming fire came from his mouth,burning coals blazed out of it.9 He parted the heavens and came down;dark clouds were under his feet.10 He mounted the cherubim and flew;he soared on the wings of the wind.11 He made darkness his covering, his canopy around him—the dark rain clouds of the sky. When You See God’s Glory (and know that you belong to Him) – you get Security, and Act RighteouslyPsalm 18:1–2 (NIV)1 I love you, Lord, my strength.2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:30–36 (NIV)30 As for God, his way is perfect:The Lord’s word is flawless;he shields all who take refuge in him.31 For who is God besides the Lord?And who is the Rock except our God?32 It is God who arms me with strengthand keeps my way secure. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
What should we teach kids about what's good and what God wants? (these are massive questions.) Kids and young adults - the decisions you make now will change the future. Parents, older folks – the influence you have on the next generation – gives you the amazing ability to change the world. In this message we’re going to look at what our young girls have been focusing on – and unpack one of the most famous compact summaries of what God says is good, and asks of his people. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Right now, in America, people seem to care more about politics than religion. Political power is our overarching story to make sense of the world. Today we’re going to talk about the secular political world of the Easter story, and how Jesus interacted with people in power. You might be surprised about what the news was like, and how Jesus treated the systems and the players – and I think that learning about can both help us reframe how we think about politics, and give us a more stable outlook on our lives as Christians.Jesus and Rome – The ExecutionersThen Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, because they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided his clothes and cast lots. LUKE 23:34 Galatians 4:4–5 (NIV) 4 But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. Luke 7:6–10 (NIV) 6 So Jesus went with them.He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”9 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.” 10 Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well. Mark 12:17 (NIV) 17 Then Jesus said to them, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” And they were amazed at him. John 18:3–7 (NIV) 3 So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.4 Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?”5 “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied.“I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) 6 When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7 Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?”“Jesus of Nazareth,” they said. Series outline adapted from Darling, Daniel. The Characters of Easter. Moody Publishers. Kindle Edition. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
People who meet JESUS, are never the same. You can’t go back to normalcy, complacency, or hopelessness if you believe in resurrection. And Jesus doesn’t only impact main characters, or people in special positions, he loves all of us – even people who feel or seem forgotten. Today we’re going to look at how Jesus changed people who were overlooked – The names we’ll talk about today are minor character to most, but major characters in the life of Jesus. And I want this to sink in – No matter who you are, Jesus will change your life for the better.Conversation opened. 1 read message.Skip to contentUsing Goshen Christian Reformed Church Mail with screen readers3 of 4podcastInboxSamuel SutterAttachmentsApr 8, 2023, 8:04 PM (4 days ago)to mesee html file attached...Does Jesus see me if no one else does??People who meet JESUS, are never the same. You can’t go back to normalcy, complacency, or hopelessness if you believe in resurrection. And Jesus doesn’t only impact main characters, or people in special positions, he loves all of us – even people who feel or seem forgotten. Today we’re going to look at how Jesus changed people who were overlooked – The names we’ll talk about today are minor character to most, but major characters in the life of Jesus. And I want this to sink in – No matter who you are, Jesus will change your life for the better. One attachment • Scanned by GmailLove it!I like it!Got it, thanks!Jesus and the Women: The First Witnesses to Resurrection Luke 24:10–11 (NIV) 10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. 11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense.Luke 8:1–3 (NIV) After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; 3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.Mark 16:9–11 (NIV) 9 When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with him and who were mourning and weeping. 11 When they heard that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it.John 20:11–16 (NIV) Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene11 Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.13 They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?”“They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.15 He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?”Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.”16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.”She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”).Luke 2:35 (NIV) 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”Matthew 27:61 (NIV) 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.Mark 16:1–3 (NIV) Jesus Has Risen16:1–8pp—Mt 28:1–8; Lk 24:1–10 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. 2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3 and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” John 19:25 (NIV) 25 Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.Acts 12:1–2 (NIV) Peter’s Miraculous Escape From PrisonIt was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword.Luke 24:5–8 (NIV) 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” 8 Then they remembered his words. Series outline adapted from Darling, Daniel. The Characters of Easter. Moody Publishers. Kindle Edition.April9th.txtDisplaying April9th.txt. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Today we’re going on a deep dive into what sorts of agenda sand demands Jesus confronted on Palm Sunday. The shocking thing about the story is how we should all walk away from Palm Sunday and learn to be more introspective about our own sometimes hidden motives because we’d all be in a better place if we listened to Jesus instead of demanding of Jesus.Handout No wonder the Herods, the Caesars and the Sadducees of this world, ancient and modern, were and are eager to rule out all possibility of actual resurrection. They are, after all, staking a counter-claim on the real world. It is the real world that the tyrants and bullies try to rule by force, only to discover that in order to do so they have to quash all rumors of resurrection, rumors that would imply that their greatest weapons, death and deconstruction, are not after all omnipotent.T. WRIGHT AND MICHAEL BIRDHe answered them, “Isaiah prophesied correctly about you hypocrites, as it is written: This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. They worship me in vain, teaching as doctrines human commands.”MARK 7:6–7 Matthew 7:29 (NIV) 29 because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.Matthew 22:23–33 (NIV) 23 That same day the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to him with a question. 24 “Teacher,” they said, “Moses told us that if a man dies without having children, his brother must marry the widow and raise up offspring for him. 25 Now there were seven brothers among us. The first one married and died, and since he had no children, he left his wife to his brother. 26 The same thing happened to the second and third brother, right on down to the seventh. 27 Finally, the woman died. 28 Now then, at the resurrection, whose wife will she be of the seven, since all of them were married to her?” 29 Jesus replied, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God. 30 At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven. 31 But about the resurrection of the dead—have you not read what God said to you, 32 ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not the God of the dead but of the living.” 33 When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at his teaching.Acts 4:2 (NIV) 2 They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead.“You have heard that it was said, Do not commit adultery. But I tell you, everyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matt. 5:27)“For I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt. 5:20)John 3:3 (NIV) 3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”“So for the sake of your tradition you have made void the word of God. You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, when he said: “‘This people honors me with their lips,but their heart is far from me;in vain do they worship me,teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’”(Matt. 15:6–9 ESV)John 1:29 (NIV) 29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! Series outline adapted from Darling, Daniel. The Characters of Easter. Moody Publishers. Kindle Edition. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Sometimes Faith is confused for hope or cope. That faith means taking a leap – and any questions, doubts, fears, experience from the past that leads us to wonder how we’ll land should be muted. Because doubt isn’t faith. And that confusion has hurt us. Today we're telling the story of someone who is infamous for doubting, but who's faith is strong and courageous. And we can learn the benefits of wrestling with a deeper faith. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
One unseen explanation for human behavior is the draw of POWER. It’s a dialect of pride that speaks loudly but in subtle ways that are hard to identity. A motivation for power explains why we get offended, or why we’re insecure. It’s why we don’t talk to our neighbors about Jesus, or why we’re not generous, it’s why we’re afraid of strangers and it’s why we don’t have vulnerable supportive friendships. We’d never say – "I have an unquenchable thirst for power" – but we’ll gossip about people because it makes us look better, or complain when their actions take away our control, or get upset when we’re not properly respected or considered. We’d just never label the struggle as power. And this gets tricky for Christians because we’d all say that JESUS has all of the power – we take our crown off and lay it at the feet of JESUS – who we say is the LORD. – And yet – even in his presence we have trouble escaping from the allure of – what I’ll just crassly label as power.Today we’re looking at the story of someone whose central theme is power – he is nakedly motivated by a drive for control, by fear of what other people think of him, by influence – and like so many people power blinds him to truth. And in his quest for power, he becomes a villain in the Easter story. And we can learn a lot from him about the dangers of being swayed by power, and we can learn a lot from JESUS about how worshiping Jesus as LORD puts us in a different, more peaceful and secure power economy. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
How you react when you’re disappointed says a lot about your character… the thing is, you’re going to get disappointed. It’s part of living in a fallen world – people will let you down, you’ll think God lets you down, and you’ll let yourself down. Disappointment is a given, but a harmful reaction isn’t. What you do when you’re disappointed shows what you’re made of and what sort of faith you have. In fact, if you can learn how to be disappointed in a healthy way, you’ll be set up for a more resilient life. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
This morning we’re telling the story about someone who changed. Someone who changed from having… issues. It’s someone who was impulsive, angry. Who would overreact, was insecure, obsessed with power, and hatred. And he changes to become overflowing with LOVE. You may know how hard it is to change those sorts of tendencies. Maybe you’ve heard or said “I’ll never do that again” “I don’t know why I said that” – But today’s story is incredibly hope-giving because it’s about something that brought change that is hard to imagine –it’s about what happens when you meet JESUS. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
When you feel like a failure, you run the risk of becoming one. Guilt, shame, and a sense of inadequacy can paralyze you from becoming what God has called you to. Today we’re telling the famous story of Peter and learning what Jesus can do with someone who feels like a failure, and if you can see how Jesus treats people like us, it can help you see who you really are as a son or daughter of GOD, and you can walk with confidence in God’s calling on your life. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
This morning we’re talking about the importance of influencing the next generation. Impressing faith, character and ethics on children. It's something that’s hard to make time for, but in the story of the Bible few things are more important. Proverbs talks about the importance of influencing the next generation over and over again. If you can make the time to even slightly show God’s love to kids, it has the potential to… (no exaggeration) change the world for the better. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
We’re talking about marriage and singleness. This is a big deal because so much of who you are as a person, so many of your plans, expectations, your causes of anxiety, fear, joys and happiness are connected to choices you make about who you are in or out of relationships. And your ability to make wise choices about marriage and singleness affects your entire life. And if you can get better at making better choices for yourself, and learning how to influencing others to make better choices about relationships, you and people you love will be set up for a better life. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
So much of our planning, worry, anxiety, happiness, and joys intersect with choices you’ll make about money. This is no exaggeration - your ability to make wise decisions about money affects your happiness, worries, and your ability to live into what you want to do. And if you can make even slightly better choices about your basic stuff, you'll be able to have a better life. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
This morning we're going to look at the book of Proverbs and see what it says about another topic we think about and make decisions about constantly. We’re looking at wisdom and money – and if you’re able to get better at choosing how to treat and view your possessions you can avoid stress, needless but dangerous mistakes and make better decisions for the long term. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
This Sunday we talked about how wise people (especially growing disciples of JESUS) use words to give to people around us. Proverbs says that your words matter, and have the power to give life and death. If you can use words even slightly better you will be able to help the people around you. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Wisdom is linked to worship. Your life is bigger than the sum of decisions you make – your life is connected to not just WHAT you decide but ultimately WHO you’re connected to. Who you journey with changes each step you take and this key to understanding Proverbs can unlock a door to making better decisions. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Life is all about decision-making. Every day. Multiple times a day. We are a product of decisions. Our futures will be determined by our decisions. We’re starting off 2023 by looking at the book of Proverbs and learning how to make better decisions and end up in a better place. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Mary is an amazing example of how believing in God's love helps you move through doubt and confusion. We can learn a lot about how to navigate life's surprises by hearing her story. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
I like to think that the best outcomes come at the end of a pleasant journey. That if things are going well and steps are obvious and decisions are easy – that means you’re on the right track. And if things are hard, disappointing or tough – it’s time to make different sorts of decisions. But the fact is, somehow in the mystery of God’s providence, it’s often the hardest steps, the most difficult challenges that bring you to the best places. And there’s a skill in life that can make a huge difference in difficulty. Having the wisdom to realize when you’re in the middle of the mess, and having grit to keep moving forward while trusting the navigator – can give you JOY even as you take each step. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Shepherds exist because peace doesn't. Today we're looking at how the birth of our Good Shepherd, Jesus, brings us peace and a future to hope in today. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
The best presents are what you really really need. Today we’ll look at a seldom-told Christmas story about God showing up and giving people who are in a desperate spot exactly what they need. We’ll look at what God told them to do as they wait, and learn what to do as we wait for God to give us just what we need. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
This morning we’re going to look at how gratitude motivates us to service and obedience. There’s a big debate about how to motivate people – do people act out of , fear or reward, or scarcity? – You might be surprised at how God motivates people. – God’s way looks like gratitude and if you could become more grateful you’d be motivated to follow JESUS and to live a better life. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Today we’re going to look at how gratitude doesn’t just change your life for the better, but it is the natural result of being a Christian. In fact, I’m convinced that if the goodness of God’s grace could sink in – if you could see what’s true, you’d become more thankful, more hopeful and more resilient for whatever life may throw at you. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
It’s been said that comparison is the thief of Joy. Today we’re going to start looking at a heart security system that can protect your sense of joy and help you navigate what is in front of you. It’s the God-given discipline of gratitude. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
It seems like different churches believe drastically different things - so what do Christians believe? – Today we’re going to learn what Christians need (and don’t need) to thrive and grow in the way of Jesus – and it might not be what you expect. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Today we’re going to talk about the method Jesus uses to build his church - and it’s not what you might expect but it’s… well it’s something that can all do all the time. We’ll learn about how living in a relational culture of honest, loving confrontation is God’s plan for helping people grow. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Too many Christians are lonely, they don’t even realize it, and it’s messing us all up. Today we’re going to look at what the Bible says about finding and becoming family – We’ll see from scripture how we’re connected to God and to each other and learn that people were never created to be independent (that’s a myth)– but we were designed to be dependent on God and for interdependency with others. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Despite the brokenness found in Christian community, Jesus' church gives people connection to other people locally and globally. We're going to look at some of what the Bible claims about how your private faith gives you connections and how being a part of a bigger community gives you stability and family in chaos and isolation. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
If not everyone who calls Jesus Lord is a true Christian, how do we know the difference between the fakers and the real ones? – And how do we become the real thing ourselves?
This morning we’re going to look at a time when someone from the massive crowd that was following Christ took a one-on-one meeting and asked Jesus that question. And by listening to Jesus’s answers, we can get clarity on how to become more authentic in our faith and walk. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
This week we looked at the definition and history of the global visible church - you might be surprised at how the Bible defined "Church" and how followers of Christ have impacted world history for the better. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Afternoon Homework: PERSONALIZING PSALM 131 Your biggest problem is proud self-will. That’s the noise machine inside you. And there is a way to gain composure through the Lord. What should you do now so you can honestly say, “My heart is not proud”? How can you make this psalm your own? How do you quiet yourself? First, identify the ladders to nowhere that pride erects.
Where do you raise up ladders of achievement? How do you go for victory, for grades, for promotion, for the big church, for the idealized devotional life? Where do you clamber up ladders of acquisition? Where do you say “if only”? Where do you seek the goodies, the security, the recognition? Where do you race up ladders of appetite? Where do you gratify your need for ease or control? Where do you gratify hunger or lust or superiority? Where do you scuttle up ladders of avoidance? Where do you get away from poverty, rejection, suffering, and people?
Pride sets up these ladders and climbs on high. The inner static reveals where your pride is located. You feel nervously happy when you climb up a few rungs. You feel bitter and despairing when you land in a heap at the bottom. Haughty eyes look down on anyone below you on the ladders you most cherish. You freely criticize others about some things, but not everything. Those particular ladders from which you gaze down in disdain are your precious and proud aspirations. You feel envy or despair when anyone else rises (or threatens to rise) above you in some things, but not everything. You chase after impossibilities, matters too great and too wonderful. No wonder you are noisy inside. Stairs of sand look so good. They promise to take you someplace, but they collapse beneath the weight of your life. Second, come to know Jesus. He never climbed the ladders to nowhere. He’s the iconoclast, the ladder-toppler, the idol-breaker, the lie-piercer, the pride-smasher. He gives life, makes peace, gives joy, and makes you over. Seek Jesus, carrying your sins in your hands. Psalm 131 is his consciousness: quieted but not placid, composed but not detached. His composure is a communicable attribute, something he willingly teaches and gives away. Psalm 131 embodies a radical dynamic. It goes against everything we innately cherish, yet it gives us something worth cherishing forever. You need Jesus to liberate your heart in a coup-d’état. Psalm 131 overthrows the powers-that-be to establish the reign of Him-who-is. Third, live the mindset of Psalm 131. When you set your hope in the right place, you become the right size. No pride, no looking down from on high, no hot pursuit of pipe dreams. The soul-storms meet their Master: “‘Be quiet. Be still.’ What is this? He commands even the demons, and they obey him! Who is this, that wind and sea obey him?” (see Mark 1:25-27; 4:39-41). Psalms are meant to be read and quoted verbatim. Read Psalm 131 again. Read it slowly and take in each sentence. LORD, my heart is not proud, and my eyes are not haughty, and I do not go after things too great and too difficult for me. Surely I have composed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child on his mother, like a weaned child on me is my soul. Israel, hope in the LORD now and forever. Memorize these words. It will take you only a few minutes to make them your own. Then turn these words over in your mind before drifting to sleep. As you drive in your car. When you approach God to talk. When you get noisy inside for whatever reason. Create such inner conversations moment by moment. “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, because this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess. 5:16-18). The Holy Spirit forms in you a psalm-generating heart and lifestyle. As you live in Christ in all circumstances, Jesus teaches you to think the way he does. – adopted from Seeing with New Eyes by David Powlison Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Resting in Forgiveness Hebrews 9:19–22 (NIV) 19 When Moses had proclaimed every command of the law to all the people, he took the blood of calves, together with water, scarlet wool and branches of hyssop, and sprinkled the scroll and all the people. 20 He said, “This is the blood of the covenant, which God has commanded you to keep.” 21 In the same way, he sprinkled with the blood both the tabernacle and everything used in its ceremonies. 22 In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. Hebrews 9:28a (NIV) so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many. Hebrews 7:27 (NIV) 27 Unlike the other high priests, [JESUS] does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself. 1 John 2:2 (NIV) 2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. Ephesians 4:32 (NIV) 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Colossians 2:13–15 (NIV) 13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. 15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. 1 John 2:12 (NIV) 12 I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. Ephesians 4:28 (NIV) Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Belgic Confession Article 21 So he paid back what he had not stolen, and he suffered— “the righteous for the unrighteous,” in both his body and his soul— in such a way that when he sensed the horrible punishment required by our sins “his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down on the ground.” He cried, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” And he endured all this for the forgiveness of our sins. Therefore we rightly say with Paul that we know nothing “except Jesus Christ, and him crucified”; we “regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus [our] Lord.” We find all comforts in his wounds and have no need to seek or invent any other means to reconcile ourselves with God than this one and only sacrifice, once made, which renders believers perfect forever. Heidelberg Catechism Q & A 56 Q. What do you believe concerning “the forgiveness of sins”? A. I believe that God, because of Christ’s satisfaction, will no longer remember any of my sins1 or my sinful nature which I need to struggle against all my life.2 Rather, by grace God grants me the righteousness of Christ to free me forever from judgment.3 1 Ps. 103:3-4, 10, 12; Mic. 7:18-19; 2 Cor. 5:18-21; 1 John 1:7; 2:2 2 Rom. 7:21-25 3 John 3:17-18; Rom. 8:1-2 Speaker: Pastor Samuel Sutter
For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit[a] of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight." Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
The astounding truth of the story of Christ’s coming overshadows all doubt and disbelief. As we dive back into the relatable status of shepherds and wise men, we understand how His love came for all. Speaker: Dr. Gilbert Varela
As we witness the coming of the wise men, we can also learn from their faith-filled attitudes. Their actions to look for Christ remind us to ask, seek, and knock as we pursue the Father. Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter
A wonderful depiction of the love of Christ, seen through the great act of His coming as one of us. Speaker: Dr. Gilbert Varela
Plans can be changed, thwarted, or absolutely derailed. We can all relate. How can we discover a broader, bolder faith in the midst of it all? What can we learn about this from Joseph, the earthly Father of Jesus? How can his true story help shape us? Speaker: Pastor Sam Sutter