Canyon Creek Church Sermons: Recent Episodes
Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church
Canyon Creek Sermons is a collection of weekly services from the pastors at Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church. Canyon Creek exists to empower people to pursue their call in Christ. Our hope is that people experience a deep and transforming relationship with Jesus. Our further hope is that as people grow in their relationship with Christ they will also grow in relationship with one another. Our services are Sundays at 10am.
Join Us This Sunday as We Begin Our Summer Series: The Music Within
This week we open the Psalms with a powerful invitation to choose the path that leads to life. Psalm 1 shows us that true blessing isn’t found in success or ease, but in a life rooted deeply in God’s Word and shaped by His presence. Come discover how the Psalms point us to Jesus, the only one who turns our wandering into worship and our instability into strength.
Join us this Sunday as we conclude our "Love One Another" sermon series by exploring the final love: Godly love. This love is selfless, sacrificial, and covenantal. It doesn’t replace the other forms of love but fulfills them, lifting them to their highest expression. Together, we'll discover what godly love truly is, where we can find it, and how we can love one another with this kind of love.
We’re tackling one of the toughest but most important topics—sexuality, desire, and God’s design for our wholeness. Come hear how the gospel offers healing, hope, and transformation in the fight against the flesh. Join us for the third part in our series on love.
This Sunday, we’re celebrating the graduating class of 2025—and we’d love for you to join us! Together, we’ll worship, honor our students, and hear a message from Zakk Uhler, our Director of Family Ministries, rooted in Matthew 27:41–54 (ESV). It’s a powerful reminder that the central message of the gospel is not only for students stepping into a new season—but for all of us. Come be encouraged and celebrate what God is doing in every generation.
This Sunday, we continue our sermon series Love One Another by exploring the gift of friendship. In a world filled with isolation and transactional relationships, Jesus calls us into something deeper: a friendship shaped by grace, truth, and sacrifice. Join us as we look to John 15:12–17 and discover how Christ defines and offers his friendship to us in order that we can extend it to others.
This Sunday we’re launching a new series called Love One Another. In Part 1: Family Love, we’ll explore how the gospel reshapes our homes into communities of grace, hope, and forgiveness. Discover how God calls our families to become examples of gospel living in a world which longs for good news. Join us as we begin this important and practical journey together!
Join us this Sunday as we conclude our Elijah and Elisha sermon series by looking at two of Elisha’s miracles in 2 Kings 6—one small, one large. Both remind us that God sees differently than we do, and challenge us to ask him to open our eyes to spiritual realities.
From the mountain of Transfiguration to the dawn of Resurrection, God unveils the full glory of His Son, showing us that the suffering servant is also the risen Lord, and that every promise—from the prophets to John the Baptist—finds its completion in Christ alone. Join us this Easter Sunday as we celebrate the resurrection and continue our series on the lives of Elijah and Elisha and their impact on the gospel story.
This Palm Sunday, we will explore 2 Kings 5:1-19 and learn about Naaman, the commander of the army of the king of Syria who was also a leper. There will be a special performance by CCKids during the service. We hope you will join us for lunch, immediately following the service, as we celebrate Palm Sunday as a church family!
Join us as we explore 2 Kings 4:1–37 and witness the beginning of Elisha’s prophetic ministry. With Elijah gone, Elisha steps into a season marked by overwhelming need—crushing debt, deep sorrow, and even death itself. Yet in the midst of desperation, God’s grace shines through. Come be reminded of the Lord’s power to provide, to heal, and to bring life where there once was none.
This Sunday we explore one of the most powerful transitions in the Bible—the moment Elijah passes the mantle to Elisha. What does it look like to finish well, prepare others to lead with courage, and position ourselves to carry the mantle when it’s our turn? Come be reminded that God’s work doesn’t end with us—it continues through us.
Are you weary, discouraged, or feeling like you’ve had enough? This Sunday, we’ll journey with Elijah in 1 Kings 19:1-18 as he moves from exhaustion and despair to renewal and purpose, discovering that God’s presence is often found in the quiet, not the chaos. Join us as we explore how God meets us in our lowest moments, restores our souls, and calls us forward in faith.
Join us this Sunday for Part 3 of our series, Elijah and Elisha: Just Like Us, as we look deeper into “The Showdown” on Mount Carmel. Discover how Elijah boldly challenges God’s people to leave behind divided hearts and fully trust the one true living God. This sermon will encourage you to give your complete devotion to the God who heals hearts and answers prayer beyond our expectations.
This Sunday, we continue our series “Elijah and Elisha: Just Like Us” with Part 2 – The Drought from 1 Kings 17:1-24. Elijah was an ordinary man in the hands of an extraordinary God—a living God who provides, leads, and shapes our trust. As we look at how God sustained Elijah through drought and uncertainty, we’ll ask: What does it mean to worship a living God? Join us as we explore how a living God shapes our trust, expectations, and ultimately points us to the cross.
Join us this Sunday as we launch a new sermon series exploring the powerful narratives of 1 & 2 Kings and the lives of Elijah and Elisha. Although these prophets ministered in the Northern Kingdom, we'll begin by stepping back to trace the grand narrative of the entire Kingdom of Israel—from Genesis to Revelation—with a special focus on Israel’s journey through unity, division, and exile. Join us to discover how these timeless stories speak to our lives today.
This Sunday, we will celebrate the incredible message of the "Feast of the Father," where we reflect on the boundless love and grace the father extends to his wayward son. Discover how this feast symbolizes the joy of reconciliation and the invitation to embrace God's love in our own lives. Join us for this final message in our series, and be inspired to experience the fullness of God's grace!
This Sunday, we continue our series The Prodigal God with Part 5: The True Elder Brother. In Luke 15, Jesus reveals that reconciliation is never free—while the younger brother is welcomed home, the cost falls on the elder brother. Join us as we discover how Jesus, our true elder brother, bore the ultimate cost to bring us back into the Father’s family.
The Parable of the Rich man and Lazarus is difficult to take in. Jesus is addressing leaders who are scoffing at his message and he warns them that they are justifying themselves merely from the frame of reference of human standards, but that God examines their hearts. And then he lays on them an appalling picture of consequences in the afterlife. He depicts both heaven and hell and the people who are taken to each place. Has the prospect of ending up in hell ever caused you to stop and consider what God's appraisal of your heart might be?
Most people recognize that the younger brother in Luke 15 is lost—but not everyone sees that the elder brother is lost as well. In fact, Jesus reveals that the elder brother’s lostness is even more spiritually dangerous. Join us this Sunday for Part 4 of The Prodigal God series as we explore the specific lostness of the elder brother—and how Jesus provides the ultimate solution.
God extends His call to individuals from all walks of life, indicating that there is no single archetype for a Christian. Join us this Sunday as we continue with Part 3 of our sermon series on “The Prodigal God,” where we will study Luke 15:11-32. This passage illustrates a loving father who forgives his two sons, serving as a reminder that God wishes to extend His love and forgiveness to all who seek Him.
Many are familiar with the so-called parable of the Prodigal Son, but did you know Jesus shared two other parables just before it? One tells of a shepherd seeking a lost sheep, and the other of a woman searching for a lost coin. Together, these three parables, shared with a diverse crowd of tax collectors, sinners, Pharisees, and scribes, reveal a powerful message. Join us this Sunday as we continue our series The Prodigal God and explore how these stories—and the people Jesus spoke to—offer a deeper understanding of God's heart for the lost.
This Sunday we begin a six-week "All Church Series" based upon Timothy Keller’s “The Prodigal God” that looks deeply into the parable of the two lost sons found in Luke 15. Through the lens of Jesus’ instruction, we will uncover his message to the world of radical grace, lost souls, and an undeniable hope. Each week will challenge your preconceived notions of sin and salvation while at the same time presenting the gospel’s transformative power for both “younger brothers” and “old brothers”. Join us for worship as we launch into this important series.
When most people think of the Tower of Babel, they often focus on the confusion of languages. However, at its core, this story is about humanity's refusal to obey God and their pursuit of self-glorification. Join us this Sunday as we reflect on how we may not be so different from the tower's builders—and how God's grace reaches us even in the midst of the consequences of our rebellion.
The end of the year is a time for reflection and renewal—a moment to consider where we’ve been and where God is calling us to go. In Philippians 3, Paul speaks of an “upward call,” a purpose that transcends earthly goals and pushes us toward the prize of knowing Christ fully. Join us for the last Sunday of 2024!
Come join us this Sunday as we explore Mary’s Magnificat, reflecting on how God exalts the humble and provides for his people. We will see how Mary’s song of praise invites us all into deeper joy, peace, and anticipation of Christ’s coming. Bring your hearts ready to worship and to find renewed hope as we continue to worship through the Advent Season.
Before Mary conceived and gave birth to Jesus, there is another remarkable story of a miraculous conception. Elizabeth, an older relative of Mary, had been unable to have children her entire life. Yet, despite her advanced age, she miraculously conceived and gave birth to John the Baptist. Join us this Sunday as we explore Elizabeth's story and how, just as John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, Elizabeth played a pivotal role in preparing the way for Mary.
In a world where loyalty often takes a backseat to convenience and personal gain, the story of Ruth points towards character and integrity. Ruth’s steadfast loyalty to Naomi and Boaz’s honorable actions demonstrate how faithful love can transform even the deepest tragedies into profound joy. This Sunday, we’ll explore how their extraordinary loyalty not only changed their own lives but also played a crucial role in God’s redemptive plan—a plan that brings hope and points us towards the coming of Christ.
Join us this Sunday for Part 5 of our Advent sermon series, “From the Garden to the Manger,” where we’ll explore the story of Sarah in Genesis 18:1-15. Discover how God’s promises surpass human limitations and how His faithfulness bridges our doubts and fears. Come be encouraged as we reflect on His unwavering faithfulness during this special week of Advent.
In the book of Judges Israel is stuck in a cycle of sin that constantly leads them to need deliverance. Each time the Lord raises up a Judge to manage the immediate crisis. One such Judge is Deborah. She, with help from a couple others, delivers Israel from their enemies. But unfortunately Israel's cycle of sin still does not stop. Join us this Sunday as we look at Deborah's story and how she, along with all the Judges, leaves us desiring an eternal king.
Join us this Sunday as we explore the story of Rahab, a woman on the fringes who encounters God’s grace in extraordinary ways. Through her faith, she finds redemption, becoming a key figure in God’s unfolding plan. Come discover how God’s love reaches into unexpected places and invites us all into His redemptive work, no matter our past.
Join us this weekend for RUF Sunday at Canyon Creek! We will have RUF campus ministers and staff from Berkeley, San Jose State, and Stanford leading the worship service. The campus pastor from Stanford will be preaching on Zechariah 3:1-5 and Christ's Clean Clothes.
When Moses was born his mother, Jochebed, faced an impossible situation. Pharaoh had decreed that all newborn Hebrew boys be cast into the Nile. What would she do? What would happen to Moses? What would happen to God's people? Join us this Sunday for Part Two of our sermon series, "From the Manger to the Garden," as we learn how God used Jochebed to prepare the way for Jesus.
Join us for our new sermon series, “From the Garden to the Manger,” as we explore the lives of the women who prepared the way for Jesus. This Sunday, we begin with Eve, looking into her story to understand our struggle with sin, the consequences of the Fall, and God’s provision of grace. Discover how Eve’s journey sets the foundation for God’s redemptive plan, leading us from the Garden to the Manger.
This Sunday, we’ll focus on the vital role of parents in nurturing children in the ways of the Lord. As a family-oriented church, we value shaping the next generation through godly instruction and love. This message is relevant to us all, regardless of life stage, as we all share the responsibility of supporting the gospel-centered spiritual growth of the next generation. Join us as we seek to build strong, faith-filled families and a community rooted in Scripture and the grace of Christ.
What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus? How does God form us more and more into the image of Christ? What difference does it make in our faith and life? Join us this Sunday as we answer these questions and more, continuing in our series, the Essentials, looking at our fifth church value: Discipleship.
Join us this Sunday for Part 4 of our series, The Essentials, as we explore the value of "Quality." We'll dive into Jesus' parable of the talents, examining what it means to pursue excellence in our stewardship and follow Christ’s example of faithful service. Come worship with us as we are challenged to give our best for God's kingdom and while resting in Him with the results.
This Sunday, we will explore the importance of Canyon Creek being a church that values many cultures, reflecting the rich diversity of the San Ramon Valley. In Galatians 2:11-14, we see Paul confront Peter for allowing cultural divisions to impact his actions, reminding us of the gospel’s power to unite all people. Join us as we learn how the cross calls us to overcome division and celebrate the beauty of our unity in Christ.
People, for all sorts of impulses and motivations abuse and harm other people. This is evil at work. This will not stop until Jesus finally triumphs over evil. But today the Lord calls us to "overcome evil with good"; one of his hardest instructions for us to follow. In Romans 12:14-21 Paul tutors us on how we might be able to triumph over evil by preparing for and implementing mercy. We can join our Lord in triumphing over evil.
Join us this Sunday for Part 2 of our series, The Essentials, as we explore the value of being a multigenerational church. We'll celebrate how every generation—from the youngest to the oldest—contributes uniquely to our worship, discipleship, and service to the community. Come and discover how we can all learn from, encourage, and strengthen one another as one family in Christ.
We are excited to start a new series on “The Essentials: A Series on the Values that define Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church”. This Sunday, we will focus on our first value, 'The Gospel,' exploring the impact of Jesus Christ's work and the response of his people. Join us this coming Sunday as we launch into our Fall All Church Series.
We all wish that we had more. More money. More sleep. More to eat. But time and time again Scripture warns of the dangers of having more. Good gifts from God can easily become perverted when we have too much more. Wealth can become greed. Sleep can become sloth. Eating can become gluttony. Join us this Sunday as we explore why the Bible teaches that having more is so dangerous and how Jesus helps us in the Battle with Excess.
Join us this Sunday for Part 4 of our series, 'The War Within,' as we explore 'The Battle with Strife.' Through Matthew 18:15-35, we'll look into the power of forgiveness and how it can heal and restore our relationships. Come discover how embracing forgiveness can bring peace and unity into our lives and connect us to Christ and one another.
Join us this Sunday as we continue our series, 'The War Within.' In Part 3, we'll reflect on 'The Battle with Sensuality,' guided by Matthew 5:27-30. We'll explore God's beautiful design for our sensuality and how embracing His vision can bring transformation and wholeness to our lives.
Join us this Sunday as we continue our sermon series with Part 2: The Battle with Idolatry. We'll explore Isaiah 44:9-20 to understand the dangers of idolatry and the futility of relying on created things for our hope. Come and discover the freedom and truth found in God's Word as we seek to overcome these battles in our lives.
We are all battling with a war within ourselves. The book of Galatians calls this the battle between the flesh and walking in the Spirit. Paul identifies these sins to help believers recognize behaviors that hinder our relationship with God and one another. Join us as we begin this important series looking at how we can Walk in the Spirit.
After Jesus resurrects and ascends up to heaven, the Apostles sense that they should replace Judas Iscariot. Two men are put forward and through the casting of lots one of them, Matthias, is numbered among the Apostles. This story raises questions about Judas' betrayal, the casting of lots, and Matthias obscurity afterward. Join us this Sunday as we look into how God has been sovereign through it all.
Join us this Sunday as we continue our series "Walking with Jesus" with a focus on the Apostle Simon the Zealot. Explore Simon's journey from a fierce revolutionary to a devoted follower of Christ. Discover how Jesus' message of peace and reconciliation transformed Simon's life and what it means for us today.
Join us this Sunday as we learn about the tragic story of Judas Iscariot, one of the Apostles chosen by Jesus. His story is about self-indulgence, disappointment, and an overwhelming burden. Discover how his life is a powerful lesson on the dangers of self-indulgence and the necessity of turning to God for true fulfillment.
In our journey of faith, we often encounter moments of doubt and uncertainty, much like Thomas, one of Jesus' disciples. Through Thomas's story, we see a powerful transformation from skepticism to a profound declaration of faith. Join us as we explore how Thomas's encounter with the risen Christ can challenge us to move beyond our doubts and embrace a deeper, unwavering belief in Jesus.
On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus gathered His disciples and told them He would be leaving, and the world would no longer see Him. However, Jesus assured them that He would still manifest Himself to His followers. In his only recorded words, Judas, the son of James, asked, "How?" Jesus' response further explained the significant role of the promised Holy Spirit.
Jesus called a tax collector named Matthew to follow him. And he answered that call, leaving behind everything. Matthew would go on to write one of the four Gospels. But some Pharisees were not pleased when Jesus called a tax collector to be one of his disciples. Jesus, quoting the prophet Hosea, says to them, "Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.'" Will they learn what he means? Will we?
Bartholomew, called Nathanael in John, only has three statements in Scripture. But these three statements advance from derisive skepticism to questioning wonder to an assertion of transformational belief. This Sunday we will look at Nathanael's pilgrimage to belief in Jesus and think about our own journey as well.
Do you believe that God loves you? Do you believe that his love for you is the source of your love for others? This Sunday we will be looking at the relationship between the Apostle John and Jesus. It is through John, and his writing, that we learn about the greatest love that ever came into the world and how we can draw from this love to change our lives forever. Join us this Sunday for Part 6 of our sermon series, "Walking with Jesus: The Story of the Apostles."
Join us this Sunday for Part 5 of our sermon series, Walking with Jesus, as we explore the life of the Apostle Philip. Discover how Jesus calls us beyond our gifts and roles, inviting us into a deeper relationship where we are valued and loved for who we are in Him. Come and be challenged by the truth that Christ's love transcends your abilities.
Join us this Sunday as we jump back into our sermon series on the Apostles. The Apostle Paul wrote almost half of the books in the New Testament. He was a Jewish Pharisee who initially hated Christians, until he had a radical encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Everything changed after he met the risen Lord, and Paul realized he was chosen to be an instrument of God to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
This Sunday we celebrate our graduating seniors. These wonderful students will be participating in various parts of the worship service and our Family Ministry Director, Zakk Uhler, will be giving the sermon centered on interactions Jesus had during his earthly ministry. Join us for an amazing Sunday!
Join us this Sunday as we explore the lives of James and John, the Sons of Thunder, in our ongoing series Walking with Jesus: Stories of the Apostles. In this week’s focus on Matthew 20:20-28, we will uncover how true passion for Christ is not about seeking power, but embracing humility and servanthood towards God and each other. Don’t miss this Sunday’s message on living passionately for the gospel through humble service—see you there!
Join us this Sunday for an inspiring journey into the life of Peter, a simple fisherman who felt a profound longing for something more. Like many of us, Peter knew something essential was missing in his life—a genuine connection with God. Yet, Peter was not just an ordinary man; he was a risk taker, willing to step beyond the familiar. This boldness drew him closer to God, who ultimately called him to be “the rock” of the church following Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. Continue to explore with us this Sunday the transformative relationship between Jesus and Simon Peter, and discover how Peter’s story can encourage your walk with Christ.
Join us this Sunday as we begin a new sermon series looking at the Apostles of Jesus. We will start the series by looking at Andrew, the first disciple called by Jesus. The very first thing Andrew does as a disciple of Christ is introduce his brother, Simon Peter, to Christ. This is only the beginning of Jesus using Andrew in moments of multiplication.
Join us this Sunday for the concluding sermon in our series on Politics and the Gospel, where we will explore what it means to live as Citizens of Heaven and Ambassadors of Christ in today's world. Discover how our heavenly citizenship and ambassadorial duties shape our engagement with political spaces. We invite you to worship with us this Sunday—come and learn and think through how to live out your faith.
Join us this Sunday as we explore the complex relationship between faith, governance, and personal responsibility, as outlined in Romans 13. You will be challenged by the call for active participation, and the importance of leading with love as we consider our own politic. It's an important topic as we approach the upcoming political season and how we, as Christians, can navigate the tensions between promoting the gospel and civic duty.
Join us this Sunday as we begin a new sermon series called Politics and the Gospel. We will begin by looking at one of the most famous scenes in the Gospels. Jesus is asked by the Pharisees and the Herodians if they should pay taxes to Caesar or not. They think they've trapped him with a yes or no question. Instead Jesus says, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." This scene and Jesus' answer have massive implications for how Christians today ought to approach their governing authorities and politics.
Jesus has risen, and you are invited to celebrate with us this Easter Sunday. We will be exploring the immeasurable significance of the Cross of Christ as laid out in Ephesians 2:1-10. Join us to learn how, through the work of Jesus on the cross, God's love and power are made available to you today.
This evening, we remember Good Friday and Jesus' death on the cross for us. Join us at 7pm for a unique evening service together.
Join us this Sunday for the beginning of Holy Week and a special Palm Sunday service. This is the Sunday when Jesus began his journey toward his death and resurrection, the center of the Christian faith. His journey began with the triumphal entry on a donkey, demonstrating he is a king. Then he wept over Jerusalem as he predicted difficult days in their future, demonstrating he is a prophet. Finally, he cleansed the temple, demonstrating that he is a priest.
Join us this Sunday as we finish our series in Colossians. This week we move the book of Philemon. Philemon is a story centered on the gospel and the themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and Christian brotherhood. You will discover how this brief yet powerful letter illustrates the transformative power of the Gospel in personal relationships. Let's explore together how Paul's words to Philemon and Onesimus call us to live out our faith in practical, life-changing ways.
The apostle Paul concludes his epistle to the Colossians both instructing, and modeling, how someone united to Christ ought to speak. How should we speak to God? How should we speak to those who do not believe? How should we speak to those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ? Join us this Sunday as we conclude our sermon series in Colossians considering once more the implications of the grace of Christ in us, especially in our speech.
Join us this Sunday at church as we explore Colossians 3:18-4:1, diving into God's blueprint for nurturing healthy, Christ-centered families. Discover the roles and responsibilities that each family member holds, and how these relationships can reflect God’s love and grace in our lives.
Join us this Sunday as we continue in our series through the book of Colossians. Discover the significance of shedding our old selves and embracing a new identity in Christ, clothed in virtues like compassion, kindness, and love. Dive deep with us into the heart of Colossians 3, where we learn not just to set our minds on heaven but to live it.
Christians are made alive in Christ through his death on the cross and resurrection. Because we are united to Christ and he has overcome this world, we have died to the world's ways. We do not need to meet any outside religious regulations to be right with God. We do not need additional special experiences to prove our maturity in the faith. What Christ has said about us and done for us is sufficient, and that brings great freedom.
Understanding why we're here can sometimes feel overwhelming and lead to frustration, but it's about recognizing all that Christ has to offer us. Paul shares how we can experience being fully satisfied through our connection with Christ, teaching us the importance of being rooted in him. We'd love for you and your family to join us this Sunday as we continue exploring these life-giving messages in our Colossians series. It's a great opportunity for some meaningful family time and reflection.
Join us on Sunday to learn more about the "mystery of Christ" that Paul writes so poetically about in Colossians 1:24-2:5. Paul, a man in chains for the gospel, has an unwavering resolve to share this beautiful mystery of Christ with the world. His life and example serve as a lesson to us on how God brings great purpose to the brokenness and sufferings we all face.
The entire Bible and all of Redemptive History is about one person: Jesus Christ. The Father tells us to listen to him. The Spirit bears witness to him. Jesus created all things. He holds all things together. He is the redeemer of all things. He is supreme over all things. This should lead us to ask ourselves if he is supreme in our lives. He is our only hope for being reconciled back to God and made perfect in eternity.
Are you walking in God's will for your life? Discover the answer this Sunday in our ongoing study of Colossians. As we dive into Paul's message to the Colossians, we'll explore four practical ways to discern whether we're truly aligning our steps with God's will. Join us this Sunday as we worship together.
Happy New Year! We will begin the new year learning about Jesus through the book of Colossians. Week 1 will begin by exploring the foundational Christian virtues of faith, love, and hope. This introductory sermon sets the stage for a 10-week journey into the teachings of Colossians, emphasizing how these virtues anchor and transform the our daily life.
There are many hyphenated compound words that begin with "Self" and add an adjective (like self-centered or self-aggrandizing) or add a noun (like self-indulgence or self-promotion). The four examples used here as well as many other "Self" compound words are addressed by our verse from Proverbs today: "nor is it glorious to seek one's own glory."
As we prepare for a new year, many people contemplate personal renewal through resolutions. In 2 Kings 22, a young boy named Josiah becomes a king, discovers the law of God for the first time, and brings about great spiritual reform for the nation of Israel. There are numerous beneficial lessons to learn from King Josiah that we can carry with us into 2024 as we contemplate our own personal reform.
Join us this Sunday as we conclude our Advent Sermon Series with a special Lessons & Carols service. We will trace through the full Christmas story, singing carols along the way, and concluding with a short lesson about the Peace provided by Christ.
Join us this Sunday morning as we explore the theme of "JOY" in our Advent series. Our sermon will dive into the heartwarming reality of a loving God who sent His Son to save His people, establishing within us a sense of true joy. Also come and enjoy the Children's Ministry as they lead us in worship through a dramatic retelling of the Christmas Story.
For Joseph the Christmas story begins in the dark. Mary, his wife-to-be, is pregnant and the child is not his. Like any of us would be in similar circumstances, Joseph is quite confused. He even makes plans to divorce Mary. But soon Joseph's confusion is cleared up when the shining love of God pierces through the darkness.
Join us this Christmas as we explore the story of Jesus, the Light of the World, who transformed darkness into hope. Discover how His message of hope, love, joy, and peace brings life to our world, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecy as it points us towards a future Messiah. Embrace the transformative journey with us, celebrating the light that brings abundant life.
The book of Habakkuk ends with the prophet trembling, yet accepting the tribulation the Lord is going to bring on his people through an invading enemy nation. He goes so far as to say that even if the fig tree does not blossom, even if the vines fail to bear fruit, even if the livestock runs away, still he will rejoice in the Lord. How did Habakkuk find the strength to say this in the midst of such troubling circumstances? And how can we? Join us this Sunday to find out as we conclude our series on the book of Habakkuk.
Chapter two of Habakkuk contains a derisive song taunting the threatening Chaldeans. History tells us that nations and empires rise to glory and then invariably fall to ignominious defeat. The Bible tells us that the LORD causes this to happen for His own purposes. Now Habakkuk shows that God is raising up a wicked nation that will bring His judgment upon rebellious Israel. How can the prophet and the people of Israel deal with the approaching violence and defeat? Habakkuk 2:20 provides an important perspective.
This Sunday, we begin with a journey through Habakkuk's heartfelt conversations with God, finding how to deeply trust in His plan with a thankful heart, even in our most challenging moments. Experience how his questions and God’s answers can encourage us to remain faithful and thankful through life’s trials. Join us and invite a friend as together we discover the joy and hope in staying true to God's course, even when we can't see what lies ahead.
This Sunday we will explore the symbolism of wine in the Lord's Supper, representing the sacrificial blood of Christ, the Lamb of God. We will discover the distinction between the substance and the fruit of this element, emphasizing that the fruit of the Spirit in our lives is inextricably linked to the redemptive power of Christ's blood. Join us as we discover how this element of Communion serves not merely as a ritual, but as a vivid reminder that our spiritual vitality is born out of the transformative work of Christ within us.
When Jesus instituted the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper he gave us a meal with two elements to consume: Bread, which he said is his body, and wine, which he said is his blood. In the first of two sermons on the Lord’s Supper, we will focus on the bread and the body, and answer the questions: Why did Jesus institute a meal as one of the sacraments? Why bread? And why his body?
Journey with us this Sunday as we look deep into Acts 16:25-34, unearthing the profound truths about Infant Baptism! Discover how our hope is anchored in the Eternal Covenant with Moses through the fulfillment of Christ, how the apostles' preaching and the baptism of entire families lay the foundation for this blessing, and the abundant benefits it pours into the church and her children. Don't miss this sermon in our series looking at The Sacraments.
This Sunday discover the profound significance of Believer's Baptism in our latest sermon series on The Sacraments. Join us as we dive deep into the powerful outward sign that confirms our faith and journey with Christ. Let the joy of this sacrament inspire and strengthen your walk with Him. Join us as we explore this vital step in our spiritual growth.
A covenant is an agreement between two parties where specific actions are promised ahead of time. What does covenant have to do with the Sacraments? Everything! The concept of covenant is present throughout all of Scripture. It’s in the background of everything we read, interpret and apply from the Bible, especially the Sacraments. God, in Christ, has made an eternal covenant to redeem his people, and it changes everything about how we relate to him.
The sacraments are a cornerstone to understanding and expressing the gospel, so much so that Jesus Himself instructed us to incorporate them into our regular worship. Throughout history, debates have arisen over their correct practice, their significance, and their relevance—highlighting the deeply personal and communal impact of these holy ordinances. In our new sermon series, The Sacraments, we'll explore how to deepen our relationship with God and foster unity within our church community by faithfully engaging in the sacraments. Join us to learn how The Sacraments can become an intimate expression of our love for God.
Jesus uses the parable of the unforgiving servant to highlight the significance of unconditional grace and God's expectation that we forgive others. Just as our heavenly Father wipes away our unpayable sin debt through His Son, He calls us to forgive those who wrong us. Failing to forgive not only contradicts the gospel, but also burdens our hearts and often deepens our disconnection from God. Join us this Sunday to explore the vital topic of forgiveness.
All people, families, and churches are influenced by communication. What we say and how we say it matters. What others say and how they say it affects us. Words are incredibly powerful. They can be a spring of fresh water or a cesspool of toxic waste. Communication can be what holds a community together, or what tears it apart. So we need to think deeply, speak carefully, and be guided by God and his communication with us - the Scriptures.
Parenting is an amazing and challenging adventure. Moms and dads go through many ups and downs as they raise their children, trying to give them the best in life. The Bible, in both the Old and New Testament, gives special guidance on how to be a good parent. At the same time, it talks about how we're like children to God, and He's like a parent to us. Come join us to explore how these ideas connect, and learn not only how to be a better parent but also how to grow closer to Christ through the important task of parenting.
God started his covenant family through an incredibly flawed man, Jacob. He was a deceiver. He was a striver. But eventually he came to see that God had unexpectedly given him his blessing because the family of God is unexpectedly blessed. Eventually Jacob came to embrace that in God's family things work differently.
The church's mission sends us out into the world to preach the gospel and grow as disciples. So how can we apply this mission to our families? How can we make our marriages and the way we raise our children align with Christ's command? Come join us this Sunday, and let's explore how to bring the family into this exciting mission!
When you think about what it means to follow Jesus, what comes to mind? For many of us, it seems to involve adjustments to our weekly routine, our moral obligations and perspectives, our strategies for dealing for anxiety or grief, and joining a like-minded community of Jesus-followers. However, when we look at how Jesus talks to Peter at the end of the book of John, we see that following Jesus is a more monumental and beautiful lifestyle than we might expect.
Zacchaeus' story is a wonderful story of a wealthy man who was rejected by his neighbors because of his traitorous choices, but welcomed by Jesus who invites himself into the home and life of this sinner. Not only had the Son of Man come seeking to save the lost; but Zacchaeus sought to be found by Jesus. In one amazing moment, everything changes for Zacchaeus.
After Jesus feeds the five thousand, a crowd finds him and asks for more bread. He confronts their motives, saying what they really need is him. Jesus is the bread of life, which has come from heaven. All who come to him and eat of his flesh will not hunger. Even if those in the crowd won't, all that the Father gives to Jesus will. The crowd finds this hard to understand and difficult to believe. Many who were following him turn back and leave. Jesus asks if the Twelve will leave too. But Peter answers, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life."
Jesus presents a parable that identifies three responses to a King's invitation to a grand Wedding Feast. Jesus is referring to a Wedding Feast that He is hosting in heaven. Looking at the responses Jesus presents in the parable indicates how he sees people responding to his own invitation to come to his own feast.
Two sisters, Mary and Martha, host Jesus in their home. Mary sits at his feet and listens to his teaching while Martha is busy making sure she is a perfect host. Anxious and troubled, Martha commands Jesus to tell Mary to help her. But Jesus doesn't. Instead he says that it is Martha who should be joining Mary, not the other way around.
This passage is often thought of as a picture of Jesus standing at the heart's door of a non-believer asking to be allowed inside. But the context tells us that Jesus is standing at the heart’s door of Laodician Christians who have turned lukewarm in their faith. What causes a Christian to become lukewarm and lose their fervent attitude toward Christ and even refuse to invite him into parts of their life (to share a gracious meal with him) when he knocks on their door?
A Pharisee named Simon invites Jesus to dine with him. At the meal, a sinful woman breaks all social norms by showing up uninvited and anointing Jesus' feet. This shocks Simon, lowering his view of Jesus. But Jesus indicates that it is the sinner, because of her love, and not the religious leader, who sees him most clearly.
When a wonderful and hoped-for event occurs it's natural to gather our friends and family and have a meal and celebrate with joy. Jesus says that all the angels in heaven joyfully celebrate when one lost human repents and returns home to a relationship with the Father.
Jesus calls Matthew the tax-gatherer to follow him as one of his disciples (which is highly irregular). Matthew throws a party to honor Jesus and celebrate him with all his irregular friends. The Pharisees grumble and question Jesus. Can a man of God eat with sinners? Jesus answers and we see his mission and how different he is from other rabbis. Jesus says, “I’m a physician going to the sick”. Luke 5:32 “I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.
In Christianity, money stirs up the deepest sensitivities. Throughout his ministry, Jesus actively weaved together the threads of our financial state and our spiritual being. This Sunday, we consider a challenging exchange between Jesus and a wealthy young man, torn between his desire to please God and his struggle with wealth. Join us in the conclusion of our sermon series, as we wrestle with the topic of Faith and Money.
God has given us the gift to create. Technology is the product of that gift. It is the iPhone in your pocket to the mixer on your kitchen counter. Technology is all around us. It is a part of everyday life. Join us this Sunday as we explore how God guides our use of technology and how it can help us glorify and enjoy him forever.
Faith and Music. Music is a wonderful gift of God to His creation. It is powerful and moving, it can stir up many different memories, moods, and affections. What role does music play in the life of a Christ follower? In worship? This is what we will be looking into this week in our sermon series.
Hospitality plays a crucial role in the Christian faith, as it mirrors the love and care God has for His people. This practice involves opening your heart and home to show kindness, generosity, and compassion to others. Additionally, it includes graciously receiving and accepting hospitality from others. We invite you to join us this coming Sunday as continue in our series looking into real-life situations and how they influence our walk with Jesus.
The escalating issue of mental health is a critical challenge facing our community. As we entered the pandemic, it was reported that 1 in 5 individuals grappled with mental health issues in various forms. It is vital for the church to acknowledge this pervasive problem and understand the role of the gospel in guiding us toward a mentally healthy community, while at the same time discovering genuine hope through the redemptive work of the cross.
"Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work..."God created work good. But work is not everything. We were also meant to stop working periodically and make space for leisure. During this break from work we are free to do things that bring rest to our souls. Take a nap. Play a game. Enjoy nature. But so often we struggle to protect time for leisure. And even when we do, we may find that our hearts are still working. Where can we find true rest? Where is the intersection of our faith with leisure?
"I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." Jesus said this massively affirming thing about a Gentile; a Centurion soldier who believed Jesus could heal his servant from afar by just commanding it. This Centurion knows and understands authority; he is under the authority of others and commands authority over his soldiers. Likewise, he believes something about Jesus that few others understood. He believes Jesus, the object of his faith, has the authority to command anything in heaven and earth.
This Sunday we are beginning a new series exploring the intersection of the Christian faith and the things we experience every day. The first sermon in this series will look at something we spend most of our waking hours doing: work. The redemptive story arc of Scripture answers many of the questions we have about work. What was God's original intention for work? Why is work so frustrating now? And is there any redemptive hope for our work in the future?
In the aftermath of the crucifixion, two disillusioned disciples embarked on a journey to Emmaus, unaware that an extraordinary encounter with the risen Christ awaited them. This Sunday, we invite you to join us as we explore the 'Road to Emmaus'—a story of hope, revelation, and life-changing transformation. As we walk alongside these disciples, we'll uncover the profound truth that Jesus continues to draw near to us, opening our eyes to His presence and the power of His Word. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to rediscover the risen Savior and experience the joy of recognizing Him in our everyday lives. Come, let's journey together on the 'Road to Emmaus.'
Join us for our Good Friday service April 7th at 7pm. This is an important way in which our church recognizes all that Jesus has done for us - taking "The Road to the Cross." Childcare will not be offered at this service as we are encouraging families to sit together in the worship center. This service will feel more serious and somber.
Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem was not only the fulfillment of prophecy but laid the groundwork for his ultimate victory over sin and death through his upcoming death and resurrection. Despite the mixed reactions of the crowds who were both drawn to and rejected his message, Jesus' claim was clear: Jesus is the true King and savior of the world. We invite you to join us this Sunday as we delve deeper into this topic in our series, 'The Road to the Cross'."
The Kingdom of God encompasses both the present and the future. According to Jesus, it is already within reach and can be experienced through repentance and faith in him as the Son of God. Jesus also emphasized that the Kingdom of God is beyond this world, and he must return to his Father to establish it. All who call upon his name are invited to join him in his Kingdom. Join us this Sunday, we will be continuing our series, "The Road to the Cross."
Jesus is believed to be the Messiah, which is an Old Testament term derived from the Hebrew word “Mashiach” meaning the anointed one. In the Old Testament, this term referred to priests, kings, and prophets who were designated for a specific purpose. The Jewish tradition held that the Messiah would establish God’s Kingdom on earth, but Jesus had a grander mission. Join us as we embark on the Easter Season with our new series, "The Road to the Cross".
In the final chapters of Esther, the reversal of the Jews' fate is realized. They defeat their enemies and inaugurate the feast of Purim. Throughout the entire story Esther and Mordecai have had moments where they've shined. But they also have had moments where they've fallen short. Throughout it all, God's providence has been on display and pointed us to the great reversal we experience through Christ's death and resurrection: Salvation from sin and death.
Jesus extends his grace and mercy to all who reach out to him. He is our mediator between life and death. In Jesus we have life, life abundant. Esther is in a position of being a mediator in Chapter 8. She is in the position of protecting God’s people from certain death and giving them an opportunity for life. Join us as we learn about the importance of Jesus as our mediator through the example of Esther.
Esther's people are in peril and the only way to rescue them is by placing her own life in harm's way. Most people tend to struggle with confrontation especially when the stakes are so high. However, the time has come for the Queen to confront the King. Join us as we learn about Esther's confrontation in Chapter 7 and how we might become bold in our own faith through her example.
Often God is at work in your life and you might not even know it. He is ordering and reordering according to his plan. Sometimes this can be frustrating and overwhelming until you get the fuller picture of his work. Join us this Sunday as we continue in our series in the book of Esther. We will see in Chapter 6 how the God who is not mentioned once by name is ever-present and in full view.
Esther 4 ends with a cliff hanger. Esther has resolved to embrace her Jewish Identity and go to the king on behalf of her people. Will the king kill her for approaching him uninvited? Will he grant her request? Will she perish along with the rest of her people when Haman's edict goes into effect? Part 5 of our sermon series answers some of these questions and moves us closer to the story's climax and resolution. It will also focus our attention on the characters' faith and idolatry, as well as our own.
There is a grave danger coming upon the Jews of the Persian Empire. The King's Edict states that for one day, all Jews can be killed and plundered. The Jews hear and lament in sackcloth and ashes and look for God's deliverance. Mordecai sees one astonishing way that God may intend to intervene; he envisions his adopted daughter, the Queen of Persia, going before the King and pleading their case. Will she go? Will she be allowed to speak? Will she deliver them? Has she come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
What do we do when we are treated unfairly? What are wise and unwise reactions? What are morally right and wrong responses? The book of Esther pushes us to ask and answer these questions when Mordecai, and the entire Jewish people, are treated unfairly at the hand of one man: Haman the Agagite. How will Mordecai and the rest of the Jews respond? And most importantly - how does Jesus reshape the way we respond?
If King Xerxes struggled with giving in to his compulsions then the people around him struggled with compliance. Defying an all-powerful King is difficult when that King is constantly hovering laws and threats over your head. It would be great to say that we would stand against such tyranny but until you are in the moment you simply do not know. This week we are going to be introduced to Esther and her caregiver Mordecai who struggle with compliance although they remain sensitive to the plans of God. They are very much like us in every way and through their story perhaps we can learn how to confront inappropriate compliance with a resounding faith. Join us this Sunday as we study Esther 2 together through the sermon and small groups.
This Sunday we begin a new All Church Sermon Series on the book of Esther. Found in the Old Testament, Esther is the story of an Almighty God working in a pagan culture through the most unlikely of people. In Esther 1 we will explore the tension we all experience between control and submitting to God. Join us this Sunday as we launch into this new series.
Christmas Day is a great time to end our series entitled "Love is [is Not]" from 1 Corinthians 13. Paul ends his teaching on Agape Love with a thought about children. He says, "When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. He is trying to encourage the church to grow and mature in something that will never end: Agape Love.
Love always persists. It does not fail. It never gives up. It is described as a roof over our heads. It is described as a firm belief and conviction that stands even in the greatest of storms. Love is built upon the foundation of hope that acknowledges God has been faithful to his promises in the past and will be faithful to his future promises. Love endures. Join us this Sunday as we continue to search out this unique type of love, Agape Love, the Love of God.
Truth (the content of Christianity is the ultimate truth) is contrasted with unrighteousness (evil). “Agape/Love” rejoices when truth wins out in life situations. In the Bible there seems to be two ways of living our lives: Psalm 1 tells us that there is a God-blessed way of living and a way that is opposed to God. This Sunday we will look at several characters in the Christmas Story to see why they are rejoicing (or not) with the truth of Immanuel's arrival. Let's rejoice with them.
Love is not irritable nor resentful. Meaning love is not meant to store up anger nor keep a long account of anger. This is not an indictment against anger as much as an indictment against what makes us angry. Join us as we continue in this vital series working through how we are loved and how we love others.
When our intent is that most everything goes to our advantage, our pleasure, our profit or to our honor, we are not motivated or energized by “agape/love” but rather self-seeking love. “Agape/Love” does not insist on self-gain, self-justification, self-worth or self-exaltation to the detriment of others. To the contrary, we Christians come to love our neighbor in a similar way that we love ourselves.
Arrogance, or pride, is considered by many to be the root of all sin. It was arrogance that led to the fall of mankind in the very beginning when Adam and Eve thought they knew better than God and ate from the fruit of the tree. It was pride that led King Hezekiah in Isaiah 39 to show off his treasure house to Babylonian diplomats, who eventually returned with their military to steal everything. Pride is the root of all sorts of sins, including boasting and being rude. But love does not boast. It gives thanks. Love is not rude. It covers shame. Love is not prideful. It is humble, like our Lord Jesus Christ.
Envy: “Love Does Not Envy.” Envy comes from the root word, “to seethe”. A person filled with envy is one who sees the superior aspects of another’s success or achievement and feels pain rather than appreciation and goodwill. In 3:3 Paul tells the Corinthians that their “jealousy and quarreling/strife” is the cause of the divisions among them; this is a mark of the “flesh” not of those led by the love of God. The Corinthians (and we today) grew up in a status-seeking culture and this carried over into the church; but this attitude is incompatible with “agape/love” which does not begrudge the honor given to another but rather delights in the building up of another. This Sunday, Zakk will teach the ancient story of King Saul and a young David to see the insidious hooks of envy play out and where we can find redemption for our own envious hearts.
Kind: Kindness is a love of the mind and heart that we see in actions and attitudes of goodwill, mercy and affection. It is a charitable inclination to do good and benevolent deeds towards others, even when they are not showing goodwill in return. YAHWEH is often characterized as having enduring “loving-kindness” towards his people.
Patient: Prolonged restraint of anger/agitation; to bear or endure pain or trouble without complaining or the loss of self-control. Patience is an attribute of God, He is patient and kind toward those who deserve divine judgment. This is how God wants us to be toward others - to remain tranquil while waiting - to bear up under provocation without complaint. To patiently wait while God transforms others.
Love is everywhere. We listen to it in our music. We watch it on our televisions. We see it in our theaters. We live it. We breathe it. We study it. We write about it. We talk about it. It is all-consuming. When we find it we go crazy and when we lose it we go even crazier. Love is an experience that sits at the very core of the human experience and sadly, because of sin, we know it is broken. Thankfully we know the God who created love and we can learn to express love as we were created to do if we learn to follow our Creator’s example. Join us as we begin this powerful relationally centered series on Love as expressed in 1 Corinthians 13.
The Apostle' Creed ends with a magnificent three-fold promise for all who believe in Christ. When we recite it we say, "I believe I will experience "Forgiveness", "Resurrection" and "Eternal Life". The greatest of human needs will be filled and we will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Let's celebrate these statements of belief this Sunday as we complete our series on the Apostles' Creed.
Jesus is the head of the church. This means that Jesus is the head of a community of believers that gathers together and practices the Christian faith according to the gospel ministry of Jesus Christ. It is a community that is driven to fulfill the great commission of Matthew 28:18-20. Join us this coming Sunday as we continue to work through the Apostle’s Creed as a Church community.
The Holy Spirit is critical to understand how to live out the Christian Faith. The third member of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, is the most difficult for us to understand; He is not as tangible as the Father and the Son. Join us as we study Romans 8:1-11 and learn important lessons about the Holy Spirit that will be life giving to your faith.
Around Easter time Christians have this way of talking about Jesus: “He has risen. He has risen Indeed.” It is a beautiful summary of what we believe at the very heart of the gospel. Did you know that Paul told the church in Corinth that if they did not believe Jesus was risen from the dead they would be foolish to pay attention to anything else Christianity had to say to them? At Canyon Creek we agree. The risen Jesus is at the center of what we believe and has the power to save your life. Join us as we continue to look at the important teachings from the Apostle’s Creed.
We know in detail what happened on Friday (Jesus' betrayal, arrest, trials, scourging, crucifixion, death, burial). We know in detail what happened on Sunday (Jesus' resurrection, interactions with Mary and the Disciples). But what happened on Saturday? This Sunday we will remember the horror of Friday and discover the comfort of Saturday (see Luke 16:19-31).
Jesus is God. All the controversies that surround Jesus (virgin birth, miracles, Son of God, Resurrection) culminate in the simple belief that Jesus is God. This is the greatest struggle facing every person whoever lives: What do I make of the testimony about Jesus Christ the Son of God? It determines not only how you live your life today but how you will live your life eternally. Join us as we continue to examine the core truths of the Christian faith as found in the Apostle’s Creed.
Jesus taught his disciples in the Gospel accounts that God is three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Come and learn about the unique person of God the Father this week. The Bible describes the Father as the provider and the originator of all things. He is the creator of Heaven and Earth and without the Father, there would be nothing. However, this does not mean that Jesus and the Holy Spirit were not active in Creation. Join us as we continue to learn the core truths of the church as we study the Apostle’s Creed together.
The Apostle’s Creed presents the core truths of the Christian faith. The Creed helps us articulate our faith and explain it to others. This is vital in a world that has been bombarded with many misunderstandings about what Jesus taught and what he wanted us to believe and do. Join us for this vital series looking at the core truths of the Christian Faith.
Psalm 138 is a song of thankfulness and praise. To be thankful, one needs to be thankful "FOR" something. This Psalm tells us what David is thankful for and how he has expressed that gratitude and also hints at where or before whom he has sung his praise to God. We today can follow his model and sing our thanks and praise to him in more places than just our church.
Jesus challenges us to bring our struggles and cares before him. To ask God to provide for us in all matters. We call this type of prayer "Supplication."
Psalm 86 is a psalm of supplication. It guides us in the process of making a request to the Lord with a humble heart. It teaches us how to bring our requests before the Lord and position ourselves for his response. Join us this Sunday as we continue in our series on the Psalms.
What do we rely on for confidence? Who do we trust in? Psalm 91 paints a picture of the protective nature of God. His name is a shelter that provides all we need in the face of life’s many dangers and challenges. The psalmist expounds on this sense of security using powerful metaphors and draws out promises for the people of God. At times, we fall prey to disbelief, but this Psalm reminds us of key aspects of truth found in our relationship with Jesus. Join us in worship as we dive into this vivid and inspiring passage.
As we can read in the first chapter of Daniel, God allowed Babylon to capture Judah; many were taken into exiled captivity. The Babylonians mockingly asked the Israelites to sing some of the songs of Zion. The author of this song laments the pain of this taunting request by writing, "How can we sing the LORD's song in a foreign land?" This Psalm Song is a communal lament of exiled Israel as it realizes the pain of God's punishment and searches for purpose and hope for the future. This Sunday we too will ask, "How can we sing the LORD's song in a foreign land?"
This Psalm is one of Personal Lament. The first line, "As the deer pants for the water" pictures a deer's great thirst; just like our souls can thirst for help from God. The writer's depression and frustrated complaint are spoken, but his expression of pain turns to faith when he pauses to reflect on this great question, "Why are you cast down my soul? Why are you in turmoil within me?" This Sunday we will look at this Psalm Song to identify some of the causes of spiritual depression as well as what can be the cure.
Learn how to sing David's song of the Christ. Like David, you need to imagine where the Christ sits; he sits at the right hand of Power (Matt. 26:64). With our songwriter, you need to see the scepter in Christ's hand; he rules over all. And with David, you need to know that Christ is your Priest (from the ancient line of Melchizedek) forever.
There are Biblical songs/poems that are called Instructional or Wisdom Psalms. Psalm 1 sharply contrasts the wisdom of God and that of sinners. Why would the compilers of the Psalter place this Psalm as the first one? What is the instructional wisdom for our lives here today? Hint: It's all about what we “Delight in”. According to this Psalm, the truly "Blessed" person has become captivated by the law of the LORD.
Jethro was the father-in-law of Moses. God uses Jethro to help Moses lead the people out of slavery. In particular, Jethro teaches Moses the importance of delegation and sharing leadership. Join us this coming Sunday as we finish our series on Unexpected People called to live Unexpected Lives.
Peter was a fisherman whom Jesus called to be a fisher of men. Jesus also tasked Peter to be the rock of the church. It would be Peter who would lead the disciples forward after the Ascension of Christ. Join us this Sunday as we look at this unexpected person called to live an unexpected life.
How do you reach out to a prostitute? God gives us one example and it reveals his passion for saving the least of these. Rahab lived most of her life as a prostitute and yet inside of her the Holy Spirit was moving and shaping her faith. As God was preparing His army to attack the city of Jericho, he had launched a secret mission to save this one lost soul. Join us this Sunday as we see the depth of God’s love and his all-out dedication to saving lost souls. Maybe yours is meant to be next.
Events come into our lives that are unexpected and unwanted. That happened to a young man named Hananiah which you may know as Shadrach. He, along with two others, felt compelled to oppose the command of a fierce King who demanded that everyone bow down and worship an image of himself - or die. Hananiah refused along with his two friends and was thrown into a fire. It was a "moment of truth" for these young men; and we must ask ourselves, "What would I do in such a situation?"
Travis will be taking us through Part 4 of our current series: Unexpected People. The story of Joseph, in the book of Genesis, is a more engaging and thrilling ride than any book, biography, or Hollywood script that has ever been written. His is a story of suffering and triumph occurring within the divine sovereignty of God. It is here that we get a glimpse of the enduring faithfulness and redemptive nature of our God towards His people.
God wants a people that worship, honor and obey him. God has chosen these people, blessed them, delivered them and told them how to live. There is a cycle of relational break down followed by restoration between God and his people seen throughout the Bible. This Sunday we will see the cycle in Gideon's life and time and hopefully learn how to see it and stop it in our own lives.
Elizabeth and Zechariah were faithful servants of God. Elizabeth and Zechariah created a home that served the Lord in all matters and provided a safe haven for all. They raised a son whom Jesus called the greatest man in the Kingdom of God. Join us this week as we learn from Luke 1 about this life-giving family rooted in honoring the Lord.
God calls people from high and low places. God calls people to witness about the gospel message to the ends of the world. Often God calls the least expecting of people. In Luke 19:1-10 Jesus comes along one of the most despised members of society, a Tax Collector. Zacchaeus lived his life collecting taxes for the Roman Empire and was considered a traitor to his people. One encounter with Jesus and his entire life changed course. Join us this Sunday as we begin our New Sermon Series on God calling Unexpected People to live unexpected lives.
Jesus has given us life. He has given us his presence through the Holy Spirit. So how should we move forward? The disciples at first did not know what to do when Jesus left. Then as they were guided by the Spirit God began to do tremendous things through them. He wants to do tremendous things through his church today as well. Join us as we continue in our celebration on the Risen Savior.
Easter Sunday is here! We will celebrate our risen Lord, Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We will celebrate his ascension to the throne of grace where he now sits dispensing grace and mercy to his beloved creation. Join us in this celebration as we read through the story and remind ourselves about the joy of having a God who loves us, sacrifices for us, and promises a hope beyond our imagination.
Good Friday is a different kind of celebration. "Terrible Friday" would be more apt. Nonetheless, it is a day where we remember the darkest moment in all of human history: the moment where Christ gave His life as a ransom for the lost and broken and "The Father Turned His Face Away." Jesus was cursed and forsaken on our behalf. This Friday at 7pm we will reflect specifically on this sacrifice knowing that for Christ it was terrible, but for us it is good. Come worship with us.
To understand the Crucifixion and Easter you need to understand the concept of “Atonement”. Atonement is something God requires and has provided. There is another concept connected with the Atonement Sacrifice language presented in the OT - it’s the idea that someone other than I will be the Sacrifice, which atones for my sin. This concept is called Substitutionary Atonement. Jesus is the substitute sacrifice; he bore my sins in his body so that I could be atoned for and without his sacrifice I'm lost.
Jesus told his disciples several times that he was traveling to Jerusalem and that there he would die. The brother, James and John, asked for prominent positions of authority and prestige in Jesus' coming kingdom, but Jesus had to explain to them that what was ahead was going to be a brutal time not a glorious time. Why not a glorious time? Jesus said: He came to give his life as a ransom payment for many. Why is a ransom needed? What is it? As we prepare for Easter, we'll remember Jesus' mission on earth, to be a ransom for us.
This Sunday we conclude our series “The Sermon on the Mount”. Jesus’ sermon ends with one of the most recognized and challenging stories written. There was a man who build his house on a firm foundation and one who built his house with no foundation. When the trials of life came one house stood and the other house fell. Jesus is pointing out that we need a firm foundation if we are going to stand up against the trials of this world. Join us this Sunday as we learn together how to form a firm foundation able to withstand the storms and challenges of life.
In our passage this coming Sunday Jesus uses several strong images to teach a distressing reality: Our lives lead somewhere; and that ultimate somewhere is before the judgment seat of Christ. There we will be either welcomed by Jesus, or sent away. Jesus teaches that it comes down to our choice in this life of one of two paths; his narrow, hard path or, the wide, easy path which most choose. Let's look again at our choice of gate and pathway and how we might be assured that we will be known by Jesus on that judgment day.
Judging Others | Matthew 7:1-11 Judging other people seems to come as naturally to most of us as breathing does. When we feel afraid, threatened, or annoyed, we can easily find ourselves immediately criticizing others in our hearts for thinking, believing, or behaving differently than we do. In Matthew 7:1-11, Jesus teaches us how to instead examine ourselves, love our neighbor, and give kind feedback to others that is loving and beneficial.
Anxiety is a powerful response to life’s complexities. Anxiety is just one of many emotions we can feel that is counter to the life God has called us to enjoy. This Sunday as we continue in our series, The Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches that anxiety is counterproductive to gospel living. Furthermore, Jesus gives us guidance on how to address anxiety in our life and work through the issues that give us anxiety on a daily basis. Join us this coming Sunday as we work through Matthew 6:25-34.
Money is the measure of success in the San Ramon Valley. We live in a world of comparing ourselves to the Jones. Would it surprise you to learn Jesus talks more about money in his ministry than prayer, mercy, or hope? This is because Jesus knows the importance of having a right heart regarding money and loves you enough to talk about it. Join us this Sunday as we continue our series on the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 6:19-24.
Praying is the focus this coming Sunday. Jesus teaches us how not to pray and more importantly indicates what "praying" is supposed to be. The "Lord's Prayer" is a model that demonstrates not only what kinds of petitions should be on our minds, but also the attitude of our hearts when we bring our praise and requests before our Father in Heaven.
Whenever Jesus says "Beware" we should wonder if the warning applies to us. Jesus is addressing our worship of God and how some do it with ungodly motivations. There are some who practice their righteousness to gain the applause of other people and not from God. This Sunday we will examine our own worship and ask: Who is the audience I seek to approach and why does God wish for us to practice things like giving to the poor, praying and fasting?
It is natural to love family, friends, and coworkers that we connect and relate with in the everyday moments of life. The more difficult task is to love those whom we don't love and don't love us back. Jesus calls us and challenges us as Kingdom servants to love all people and devote ourselves to loving the lovable and not so lovable. Join us this Sunday as we continue through the Sermon on the Mount and gain insight from Jesus' powerful sermon.
Lust, Divorce, and Oaths. These three teachings from the Old Testament have been distorted by the religious leaders of Jesus day. Join us as we work through these passages and discover how Jesus corrects the false teaching of the Pharisees.
What are we called to do with our anger? The Lord gave us these powerful emotions and the responsibility to regulate them as his disciples. Jesus had moments of righteous anger but also warns us against allowing anger to overcome us. Join us this Sunday as we continue looking through the Sermon on the Mount and the instructions Jesus gives his disciples.
Jesus concludes the opening of his sermon by challenging us to live as salt and light in the world. These metaphors are used throughout the Old Testament to describe the covenantal relationship between God and man. Learn with us this Sunday how Jesus takes these Old Testament metaphors and applies them to the New Covenant and the church age. Our text will be Matthew 5:13-20.
Jesus begins his teaching in Matthew 5 with a list of eight character or spiritual states that are approved by God and which he blesses. We call these "The Beatitudes" because each sentence begins with the word "Blessed" (meaning: "How fortunate is the man..."). With each beatitude Jesus defines the developing character of the members of the kingdom of God. Each beatitude includes a reward that this approved person can expect.
This Sunday we will look at Matthew's presentation of events that occurred prior to Jesus' great teaching we call "The Sermon on the Mount". How did Jesus gather such a great crowd of people excited to hear what he had to say? Why do people (both then and now) come to Jesus; what are their hopes and expectations?
On "Epiphany" we celebrate Jesus as the Savior of the world. This world often feels increasingly dark to many people today, but there is good news: "Epiphany" means to shine through the darkness. Thus, many Christians today celebrate epiphany by remembering the shining star sought by the Magi who came from the East to worship Jesus. Who are these wise men? Why did God send them? What does epiphany mean for us today? Join us this Sunday, the day after Christmas, as Zakk Uhler leads us in a worshipful reflection upon Christ---our glorious Light.
Everyone is in search of peace. We were designed by our creator to live in peace and harmony with one another and the world. Join us this Sunday as we continue in our series on Advent and learn how Jesus is the one who brings true and everlasting peace to the world.
The Father sent his one and only son to come to the world on our behalf. He came to glorify his Father and lead the way for his people to do the same. Jesus is a gift from the Father to his beloved.
The Father sent his one and only son to come to the world on our behalf. He came to glorify his Father and lead the way for his people to do the same. Jesus is a gift from the Father to his beloved.
Few people would observe our nation and think we are unified, just, altruistic or healthy. We ask each other how did we get to this place; what is the cause of this dysfunction? This Sunday we'll ask ourselves about the future: "Can we hope for a better future?"; "What do you think is the Hope of the World?
For many the Heart emoji is the symbol of loving something or someone. Being “in love” is a phrase we use for the romantic sentiments of elation, euphoria and bliss, which sponsor spontaneous demonstrations of devotion and adoration. Interestingly the Valentine’s Heart, so well known in our culture, is not the Christian symbol for love. The Christian symbol for the highest kind of love is the cross of Jesus Christ. How do we love our spouses and our friends with this kind of love? The Bible provides a long list of characteristics of loving in this distinctly Christian fashion. We can do this!
It is difficult to love one another genuinely although this is the call not only for our marriages but all relationships in life. It is difficult because sin gets in the way of our relationships and cause us to hurt one another in a variety of ways. Join us this Sunday as we look to Ephesians 4:17-32 seeking to understand how we can love genuinely while working through the difficult issues that come as we have conflict.
God has designed marriage to work in a complementarian fashion. The two become one and add great benefit to one another through serving one another. This is the riskiest part of marriage because it involves trust and respect for one another. It also requires submitting to one another.
The term, “Soulmates”, is well known in our culture today and it was used in Ancient cultures as well. Most definitions of this non-Biblical term include ideas like: “There are few people with whom I could find a perfect marriage fit and so I must find that ideal person in order to have a happy marriage relationship.” Some go much further and believe the ancient idea that there is but one person who is the matching half of your soul and you must find that person. We Christians need to redefine this contemporary concept of Soulmates to rediscover what God has intended for couples who have entered into the covenant of marriage and been joined together into “one-flesh” by Him.
There is no such thing as the perfect marriage because there is no such thing as perfect people. Marriage is wonderful because it provides a space to share your life with another person. However, one thing we quickly realize is that our partner is broken and so are we. The beauty comes when we realize that God meets us in this broken relationship and works to weave us together by his grace.
This Sunday, Zakk Uhler will be leading us through a powerful parable of Jesus called "The Unforgiving Servant." This parable takes place like an epic play, structured in three astonishing acts. We will explore how the power of being forgiven enables and demands the offer of forgiveness to others. We can't wait to see you Sunday morning.
We are called not just to receive the gospel, but to pass it on. We do this as we are empowered by God's grace to entrust the gospel as we engage in suffering for the next generation. Join us this Sunday as guest Preacher Chris Vogel joins us.
We need to learn to be wise with our words. Not so much because our words can hurt the Lord, but they can hurt ourselves and others. The people are caught up in protest against God and it is causing a hardness in their heart. Join us as we finish our series on Malachi.
God challenges us through trial. As the Lord challenges us in and out of the seasons of life we will be sharpened and renewed by his justice and holiness.
The people of Israel disobeyed God's principles on marriage and divorce just like the generations before them had rebelled. Malachi calls it treacherous unfaithfulness and lists some major consequences. Marriage and family are very important to God and this Sunday we will be reminded of this and take the opportunity to renew our covenants to God, our spouses and our families.
God is love. This is difficult for us to comprehend because there are so many competing definitions of love in the world today. Join us this Sunday as we learn how God defines his love for us and how we are called to respond to his love.
It can be difficult to maintain your faith in the midst of difficult situations. It is good to remember that God works for his purposes even in the middle of difficult times. Some of life's greatest blessings come through adversity and struggle. It has been 100 years after temple worship has been established a second time yet the people, who thought they would be blessed, continue to struggle. Join us as we learn through their adversity blessings from the Lord.
Canyon Creek is a church looking to empower people to pursue their call in Christ. This means we are desiring to follow the great commission as it is laid out in Matthew 28:16-20. This Sunday we will be looking at our unique call to the gospel ministry in the San Ramon Valley. So please us this Sunday as we look forward to another year of ministry and how God is calling us to love our neighbors and friends, to love our brothers and sisters in Christ, and to love our amazing Lord and Savior.
Genesis 3-11 follow the advance of sin from the initial disobedience and rebellion of Eve and Adam, through the fratricide of Cain to the all-pervasive moral corruption prior to the flood. Now, after the flood, the grandchildren of Noah desire to build a tower stairway to heaven, taking another great step of offense against God. This sunday we are looking at the tower builders offense; and will find that they are institutionalizing paganism, purposely distorting and diluting the concept of who God really is. This trend continues to this day.
Jesus takes a few loaves of bread and a couple of fish and multiplies them to feed a crowd of thousands. Many remember this account as one of the first things they learned about Jesus, but there is a depth to what was happening at this moment that is not often investigated. Shortly after this miracle took place Jesus told the people what they truly needed was much more than food. This became a decisive moment as to whether or not the crowd would continue following Him and is a decisive moment for us as well.
The Story of Naaman coming from Syria to Israel seeking healing from his leprosy from a prophet (Elisha) of Israel is a great Children's Bible Story because he gets healed after being angry at the method of healing he was instructed to follow. But the story is much more than this, it's a powerful, life-changing story of grace and redemption that applies to us today. Read it in preparation for Sunday: 2 Kings 5.
Prophets like Elijah hate when they see in their nation a drifting away from wholehearted devotion to God toward syncretism to idolatry to apostasy. Elijah confronted the King and the people and then dueled to the death with the prophets of Baal and Asherah. It looked like a sweet victory and a radical heart-turn for the people and the king but in less than 24 hours Elijah is running for his life and so disappointed he wanted God to end his life. How do followers of the true God live in a world that does not honor God or seek to follow Him?
When we think of children’s stories, we usually think of the spectacle: The sea parting, a giant whale, a fiery furnace, or viscous lions. But in the story of Daniel, we see that there is something much greater at hand. Join us this Sunday to explore the story of Daniel and the Lion’s Den, and learn what we ought to look for in all these stories we know so well.
Living out our faith in Christ can present real and challenging moments. Christians are not free from the same struggles and sins as everyone else. We are simply aware of the answer to those struggles and sins. However, placing our faith in Christ, does not necessarily mean we will embrace the healthy answer in all situations. Jonah captures the heart of the struggling Christian powerfully as he weighs his obedience to the Lord against his own heart. Join us this Sunday as we continue in our sermon series by looking at the life of the prophet Jonah.
If you grew up learning Bible stories without a doubt The Battle at Jericho would have been in the mix. It is a story filled with swords, trumpets, war shouts, walls falling and victory over enemies. We can learn about the power and sovereignty of God via this amazing story. However, there is so much more this story has to offer us regarding redemption, sanctification, and pursuing the will of God with all our heart. Join us this Sunday as we go beyond the children’s story.
Why did God command Samuel to anoint a new King over Israel, while there is already a previously anointed King (Saul) in that position? In this story we get to see why God rejected King Saul, and why He chose David. What was so bad about Saul that God would turn away from him? What would be so right about David that God would not in the future reject him?
If I had to choose the two best moments in Joseph's life from the many chapters about his life in Genesis I would choose the moment he gained great earthly power from Pharaoh and the moment he decided to forgive his brothers. His childhood dream is fulfilled, he has the power to exert justifiable retaliation on people who have abused him, yet he takes a radically different path. In this Bible Story we can learn much about God's ways, as well as see an example to emulate in Joseph's radical choices.
This Sunday we celebrate our graduating Seniors from the class of 2021. We are thankful and blessed for the provision of the Lord to raise up the future of the church. Join us this Sunday as they lead us through our time of worship.
A great story to teach kids is the story of Noah and the Flood. It is filled with animals, storms, and drama. It is a beautiful story of redemption as God rescues Noah and his family. However, there is also a deeper lesson about judgement and wrath that is more difficult to comprehend. Join us this Sunday as we learn about this important part of Scripture.
This Sunday we will look at three more of the qualities that Peter teaches we must make every effort to supplement our Faith. Last week we looked at adding "Moral Excellence" and "Knowledge of God" to our Faith. This week we will look at "Self-Control", "Steadfastness" and "Godliness". The effect on us inwardly and behaviorally is great when we have these qualities developing within us. As an example of becoming "Self-Controlled" and "Steadfast" we will look at an event in David's life as he is running from King Saul, found in 2 Samuel 24.
Last Sunday we learned that Peter taught that Christians needed to supplement or add to their faith, seven qualities. These qualities, in a stair stepping way, begin with adding to our faith, Virtue (moral excellence) and then adding to our Virtue, Knowledge of God and His ways. We will look at the definitions of these two qualities and look at the Parable of the Talents as well. The Parable will give us a real life look at how the possession or lack of these qualities has a huge effect on our life choices. In preparation read again 2 Peter 1:1-15 and Matthew 25:14-30.
According to the Apostle Peter, there is a difference between an effective and fruit bearing Believer and a Believer who has a spiritual vision problem - nearsightedness approaching blindness. One who is nearly blind will trip and fall in important spiritual and life matters. Peter wants to stir us up to pursue and add some qualities that will powerfully supplement and develop our Faith. These added qualities will not only confirm our calling and election, but also keep us from failing. Join us week by week we look at these qualities in 2 Peter 1:1-15 and see how they can be added to our lives.
In a place not often explored in Scripture, we read about what happens when God's people keep failing and failing with no sign of escape. Because we all know what that's like, we have plenty to learn from the events of the book of Judges. Join us in looking at Ehud in a story full of action, hilarity, tragedy, and hard-fought hope.
We call this coming Sunday, Palm Sunday. We call it that because as Jesus was entering the city of Jerusalem a few days before his arrest, a large crowd picked up Palm branches and waved them while shouting "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel." Some of the crowd believed Jesus was the promised Messiah, but others believed he was an imposter. Join us on Sunday as we consider those who believe and those who disbelieve.
This Sunday we come to the end of our series through 1 and 2 Thessalonians. We have enjoyed learning about the hope filled church as Paul shares his thankfulness for the gospel ministry of this young church standing up for the gospel amidst great persecution. This Sunday we will cover 2 Thessalonians 3. Paul one last time is challenging us to be faithful to the work God is doing within us and outside of us. Join us as we continue to learn how to be faithful disciples and a hope filled church.
One of the great hopes we have as Christians is knowing that Christ will one day return. Scripture reveals to us some details about his return that we ought to pay attention to. In the passage this week Paul explains some of the events that will take place before Jesus will return. Join us this Sunday as we work through 2 Thessalonians 2 exploring the important themes of Jesus Christ’s second coming and some of what will take place before he does.
Paul begins his second letter to the Thessalonians with some words of commendation and then some information that comforts these people who are being persecuted because of their faith in Jesus Christ. The commendation is because their faith and their love for one another is deepening and increasing. The comfort Paul want them to feel is found in their future, when Jesus comes again with his fiery angels.
Paul finishes his first letter to the church at Thessalonica with a rapid fire list of 17 exhortations. We'll look at several of these in some depth and see that they still apply to a church like ours today. Do you think we should apply 1 Thessalonians 5:26 "Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss" to our church services?
This Sunday we will look at how Paul instructs the church at Thessalonica regarding the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. While there are many views on the when and how of Jesus' return, Paul wants the church to focus on their Faith, Love and Hope.
Paul begins to address concerns he has for the church as it continues to grow and flourish. The first issue he tackles is the sexual ethic of the church. He pushes back against both the prude and the promiscuous. Instead he points them towards a completely different way of understanding God's gift of sex. Join us this Sunday as we continue in our series through 1 Thessalonians.
Before Timothy reported on his hurried return to the church at Thessalonica, the Apostle Paul was very concerned about the new converts there. He had been with them for only three or four weeks, many converted, but then he was compelled to leave town. He is concerned about their faith persisting. He is concerned that the impact of religious persecution and Satanic temptation might collapse their faith. Timothy's report brings Paul great joy; their faith and love has persisted and developed!
God’s word is central to the Christian faith. It guides us toward salvation but more than this it guides us to glorify God in any situation. Paul is thankful that the church in Thessalonica has responded to God’s Word and persevered through their trials.
Paul is thankful because the church in Thessalonica shepherd's one another with boldness and gentleness. He encourages them to continue in this practice. At Canyon Creek we love to highlight the role of shepherd and the need to be a congregation that loves one another and lifts one another up. Join us this Sunday as we continue our sermon series by looking at 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
God has called his church to bring the hope of the gospel to the world. Those who know Christ have been gives great gifts of faith, love, and hope. Jesus calls us to take those gifts and give them away. Join us this week as we begin a new series looking for how we can do this. We will be looking at 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 this Sunday.
In Psalm 111:4 the poet states that God CAUSES his wondrous works to be remembered by us. First, why would God need to do that; and secondly, how does He do it? This Sunday we'll look at Psalm 111 to find the answers to these questions and it will lead us to remember our need to be Thankful people and understand that realized Gratitude has a spiritual result which is Humility. This Sunday let's join with this poet and "Give Thanks to the LORD with my whole heart."
We are entering a new series this week called "Giving Thanks." Our Family Ministry Director, Zakk Uhler, will be teaching from Luke 17:11-19 where Jesus heals 10 lepers. Come and join our service to look once again at the compassion of Jesus and the response He desires from His people.
The Blessing or Benediction is the end of the Christian Worship Service. God, out of his love for his children, sends us into the week filled with his blessing. This is meant to fill the Christian with the confidence that the presence of God is not only found in the worship experience but day by day as we live lives giving him glory. This Sunday we will be looking at a benediction found in Numbers 6:22-27. It is known as the Priestly Blessing benediction and it is just as powerful today as it was when Aaron prayed over the people of Israel thousands of years ago.
Why do we take 25 or more minutes each Sunday to teach or preach? Why do we think that an exposition and application of God's Word is vitally important to our congregation? This Sunday we will look at one of Paul's recorded sermons from Acts 13 and see some indications pointing to why "teaching" is vital to our church.
Part 6 Prayer Matthew 6:5-15
Prayer is central to the Christian life. Many questions come with something so important: Why do we pray? How do we pray? What should we say? This Sunday we are looking at what Jesus had to say about prayer, plain and simple.
The role of music in our lives is vital. It impacts both our emotional and rational state. It captures our heart in ways other forms of communication cannot. It is also vital to give praise to the Lord through music because it opens a depth to relationship with Him. This Sunday as we learn about the role of music in worship read Psalm 95 in preparation.
Imagine the worst health condition happening to you and your life is at risk. Now let me ask you: Do you believe you are pardoned by God for your sin? Some, at death's door, don't even consider this question, while others think of it and are either confident or not. Some call for their minister. What is the basis for God pardoning us? Why do we at CCPC often attempt to assure ourselves of God's pardon for our sin? Today are you confident that God has pardoned you?
God calls his people to confess their sin corporately and privately. This Sunday we are in part three of our series and will be learning about the “Confession of Sin” element. This act of worship is not only important for Sunday but vital for our Christian growth. This Sunday we will explore why it is so vital and how it can make a daily impact on your life. We will be studying from Psalm 51 so please read ahead.
This Sunday we continue in our series called "Our Intentional Worship" and focus on one more element of our worship service. Last Sunday the focus was on our "Call to Worship" and this week we will look at the "Apostles' Creed". What is the big deal about Creeds, Confessions, Statements of Faith and similar Christian Affirmations? Why would we regularly use and refer to them in word and song in our services? This Sunday we will recite the Apostles' Creed and hopefully you will be able to do so with more clarity, comprehension and devotion.
Part 1 Call to Worship
God calls his people into worship. This is a gift to us because worshipping God brings healing to the wounded heart. As we glorify God and rejoice in him the Spirit nourishes is through the Word and His presence. Join us as we launch into our new series on worship and examine the worship practice of “The Call to Worship”.
Jesus makes himself known through the work he does in you and me. We are jars of clay formed and shaped by Jesus to do the work upon which he calls us. As Paul finishes his final letter he reminds Timothy of this simple truth. We are called to make much of Jesus and his gospel message. Join us as we finish our series looking at 2 Timothy 4:9-22.
Our Family Ministry Director, Zakk Uhler, is continuing our series “The First of Many” this Sunday. We will be studying 2 Timothy 4:5-8 and learning about how we are called to do the work of ministry, pouring out all we are for the cause of Christ in the world. Join us as we journey through this passage together.
THE FIRST OF MANY | PART 11
Our passage this Sunday is often used in Pastoral ordination and installation services. In 2 Timothy 4:1-4 we can see Paul passing the leadership baton to his protege and charging him with the responsibility of leading a church. It won’t be easy for Timothy because there are some problems in Ephesus he will need to address. Paul has no doubt, Timothy is the one to take on the position and work of Pastor at the Ephesus church plant.
Our passage today is one of strongest claims in the Bible regarding the nature of written Scripture. These verses from 2 Timothy 3:16-17 appear in every Theology textbook because they unequivocally claim that the source of the Bible is God Himself. This Sunday we will look hard at these two verses and allow Paul to challenge our convictions about the authority of the Bible. What authority does Scripture have over your thinking, views and behaviors?
The Fellowship of The Church
Today, more than ever, we need to be intentionally fellowshipping with one another in the church. We need to have relationships with fellow believers that draw up deeper into relationship with Christ. Paul, gives Timothy, instructions for how to lead the church to develop these types of relationships with one another. Please join us this Sunday as we continue in our series “The First of Many” as we look at 2 Timothy 3:10-17. Join us online at 10am.
It can be difficult to discern between our wants and God's desires. Paul, warns Timothy, that temptations of the world can quickly shear our hearts towards ourselves and away from God. Paul teaches Timothy, and us, how to discern between the temptations of this world and the will of God. Please join us as we continue to work through the book of 2 Timothy.
It is easy to divide a congregation over petty issues. This week we will cover 2 Timothy 2:22-26 looking at how to avoid senseless arguments and bickering. Paul then guides us on how to manage conflict in a Christ-centered way. Please join us at 10 am online.
Jesus was very aware of wolves in sheep's clothing entering His flock. In our passage this Sunday, we will see that Paul too is very concerned about some people in the churches he had planted who are causing division, encouraging quarrels, and teaching lies. Their impact spreads like a poison. It's not a benign concern, it's dangerous to the faith of some. What do you do about false teachers, misguided opinion leaders or ungodly influencers that are in the Church, but are not authentically, representing God and His Word?
The Hope of the Resurrection
We are in need of hope in today’s crazy world. The gospel offers us hope through the resurrection of Jesus. Join us this Sunday as we work through 2 Timothy 2:8-13 and discover the hope offered by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Paul writes about "being ashamed" several times in his letter to Timothy. The sense of being ashamed is a powerful emotion that affects our actions and reactions. Why does Paul bring this subject up for Timothy and indirectly to us? The temptation to back away from identifying with Jesus Christ and the message of Good News has been a concern since the beginning of the Church. Listen Sunday as Marty attempts to show how Paul encourages Timothy and us to be Confidently Faithful (the opposite of Ashamed).
Jesus has defeated the grave in order to give you life. So, do not be ashamed but instead walk boldly in Christ. The covenant of grace provides us with the purpose and grace to share the gospel message with the lost and broken world. Therefore, we can be agents of reconciliation bringing hope to the world by sharing the gospel of Christ with one another as we grow in Him. Join us this Sunday as we focus on 2 Timothy 1:8-11 and continue in our series 2 Timothy, The First of Many.
Paul is at the end of his earthly ministry and is in prison. He has Luke by his side to help write his final encouragements to the church. One such letter is sent to his beloved Timothy, whom he has raised up to know Christ. He charges Timothy, and us, to stand up boldly for Christ. Soo not be governed by fear but instead be filled by the power, love, and self-control of the spirit of God. Join us this Sunday as we begin our series on 2 Timothy.
Many people believe in God and believe God loves them and calls themselves Christians yet they are just as selfish, anxious, hate-filled, and messed up as everyone else. Beliefs must be turned into a changed character and our focus on Sunday will be asking how God calls for that transformation to happen. Hint: It's by being deeply involved in an intimate Christian Community. That kind of community is unknown to many of us and so this Sunday we'll look for action steps we can take to enter into that community.
We are built to thrive in the gospel-saturated community. We are designed to encourage, admonish, and love one another. We are called to avoid division and serve side by side. Join us this Sunday as we learn from 1 Corinthians 12:12-31.
One Biblical characterization of our accomplishments is to label its fruit. The metaphor indicates that we are all living and growing and bearing some kind of fruit in our lives. The big question in Jesus' mind is what kind of fruit or treasure are we producing and storing up as we strive to achieve. This Sunday we will look at Jesus paint a story of a high achiever who fell into the soul traps that often come with great success.
Since it's mother's day, maybe an emphasis on the joy and motivations for hard work and accomplishment. See Prov. 31 woman. Gifts, talents, skill, mind, used to achieve for the glory of God. Results in helping family and neighbors. This message celebrates God-given Work as a blessing that gives us self-esteem. We are designed to create, work hard, and have individual talents to accomplish in unique ways.
The heart is the center part of our inner being. In Psalm 139, David pleads for God to search his heart and lead him in the way everlasting. To have a “Thriving” relationship with God, we need to understand our hearts, surrender our hearts, and learn how to guard our hearts against threats and temptation. Join us on Sunday as we look to God’s Word to teach us how to do just that.
There is a segment of each of our lives that is inward and immaterial. Some call it ego, some call it the soul, some characterize it as the private place we do our ‘self-talk’. This inner part of us is sometimes disguised by us, often times it is concealed and unexpressed, while many people are very revealing about what they are thinking, believing or feeling. The Bible calls this part of us the “Heart” and God repeatedly calls us to become wise in this fundamental area because it influences all our behaviors.
Should Christians be concerned about whether or not they are Thriving? If we were to define Thriving as flourishing, growing, maturing, blooming, or advancing; and the opposite of Thriving being declining, waning, stagnating, or atrophying; we would probably all agree that flourishing and Thriving is something God calls us toward. In today’s Scripture lesson we are called to become “pleasing” to our God in all these segments of our lives.
He is Risen! Jesus would not be held down by the grave. He has defeated the grave and bought for each one of us the opportunity to have life eternal. It is a mysterious and glorious truth that can be difficult to comprehend. Join us this Sunday as we celebrate our resurrected King.
Christ paid it all. He came to conquer sin. He died in our place, so we can have a relationship with our Father. Please join your church family as we prepare our hearts for the coming of our Christ Savior this Easter.
Palm Sunday is here and we are celebrating our King. Jesus's triumphal entry into Jerusalem launched the passion week that would see Jesus crucified and resurrected. During that week in the upper room teaching Jesus revealed that he is The Vine. Jesus was the new Israel that would bring life to all those who were connected to him. He invited everyone into a dynamic relationship with Almighty God! You can have this vibrant, dynamic, and life-giving relationship with God as well. Join us online Sunday at 10AM!
Jesus has a vision for your life that is beyond what you might imagine. We are so consumed by carnal desires and fail to see that we are designed for so much more. We are created to glorify God and enjoy the life that He has given us. As Christians, we are called to resist the fears and worry of this world as we rest in the hope and joy found in Christ. Join us this Sunday, online at 10 AM, as we explore the “I am the bread of life” statement in John 6.
We live in extraordinary times but not unprecedented times. God works through his people both in times of prospering and trouble. God is always preparing his church to do the gospel ministry no matter the world events that face it. Join us as we finish our series by teaching from Exodus 40 which reveals how we are prepared to give God glory in all circumstances.
Last week we looked at Israel's great trespass; while Moses was up on the mountain with God, they fashioned an idol and worshipped it. Moses hopes that "perhaps I can make atonement", but he cannot. We read further to find that God somehow is able to renew the covenant and dwell with and bless these "stiff-necked" people. How can a Holy God grant amnesty to a people who have thought and acted this way?
It's the third month of Exodus from Egypt. The people of Israel have joyously made a covenant with the LORD. They will obey His commands and ways, and He will be their God and lead them into a land of promise. Moses is called up the mountain where God instructs him regarding how He will dwell or tabernacle with the people. Ironically and odiously, at the base of the mountain, the people give Moses up as lost after 40 days of waiting and demand an idol god to worship as their new divine leader. They trespass the first three commandments and break the covenant. God sees it all. What does God do with sinners like us?
"The Priest" (Exodus 28)
Exodus 28 gives us insight into the role of a priest in the Old Testament. In this passage, God describes the expected garments of the priest in the tabernacle. This section of Exodus is a beautiful foreshadowing of the future New Covenant and of Christ Himself. We will be discussing the role and purpose of a priest and what a priest mean to us today.
God desires a relationship with his people. God has gone to great lengths to establish the opportunity for a relationship with him. This Sunday join us as we continue to learn how God has rescued us and offered a relationship with us at a heart level.
God is faithful to his people. Even when we are not faithful He hears and extends His grace. Even more than extending grace, however, God provides a way of peace, hope out of despair. Join us this Sunday as we explore these themes in Exodus 16.
600 Egyptian war chariots coming at you would cause anyone to feel fear. What do you do when the situation is so difficult that you feel powerless and on the edge of doom? That day the Israelites melted into anxious faithlessness. Then Moses told them to stand firm and in silence, watch the LORD vanquish their enemy. By the end of the day all the chariots were at the bottom of the Sea. Exodus 14:30 "Thus the LORD saved Israel that day..."
How does the Most High God, our Creator, handle the rebellion of humanity? How can One whose nature is Holy and Just, also be Merciful and Loving? The creation needs justice and we want justice to reign over others, but what about our own rebellion and sin? The Tenth plague is about Justice and Mercy and the vivid story demonstrates how the LORD can choose to show mercy, even to us as we eat and drink from the LORD's Table in Communion.
In Exodus chapter 7 & 8, Egypt is struck with plagues. We look into what God is up to in the midst of these plagues and how He is establishing Himself as the One true God. In this passage, we clearly see the wrath of God at work in Egypt, but we also witness and marinate in the richness of His goodness, kindness, and grace.
We continue this week looking at Exodus 3 and 4. In one of the more recognized stories in Scripture Moses encounters God at the burning bush. Join us this Sunday as we learn how this encounter teaches us about how we can approach God for ourselves and discern His call in our lives.
Moses is being shaped and formed to be a great leader. The path to becoming a great leader is experiencing the trials and life situations you want to lead others through. The Lord is giving Moses experiences that will help him lead Israel out of slavery.
We launch into the New Year looking at one of the great sagas told in all the Bible. The Exodus is the story of God redeeming an entire nation called to teach the world about God’s love for all people.