Sermons from Sunday (First Cov Lincoln): Recent Episodes
First Evangelical Covenant Church
We are disciples who make disciples. Join us for worship online or if you are in Lincoln, NE join us in-person, Sunday at 9:00am.
Love God first: Seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness. Luke 14:26.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
In our darkest moments we need God the most. When you long for God, seek God. Mark 15:34.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
Prioritize your place with God first. Put him atthe top of all you do, then you can answer the follow-up questions. Mark 12:17.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
Nurture a Godly heart, it's the only way to experience God's presence. Matthew 5:27-28.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
Good character needs no defense. Matthew 5:22.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
Jesus is the food you need for the life God hasprovided. John 6:53.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
When your hope is in Jesus, you live like yourhope is in Jesus. Romans 8:1-8.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
We can live without shame of the gospel in our own lives and in sharing it with others. That is why Christ came and died. To offer peace with God to anyone who will believe in him. There is no shame in that. The peace, the character, the hope mentioned in these verses is not just for us to experience. It is so that Christ might share it with others through us. Romans 5:1-5.
Preacher: Mark Schwarting
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
Belief is lived. Declare Jesus always. Romans 10:9-10.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
God didn't say "Once you understand, then Christ will die for you." As it turns out, when we didn't even know we were enslaved to sin, God was inviting us to redemption. Romans 5:8-9.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
The wages of sin are my fault. Redemption is God’s solution. Romans 3:23 & 6:23.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
With Jesus we are alive with hope, have the ability to see God, and can experience His presence today. 1 Corinthians 15:1-14.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
Jesus is a teacher. He shows the saved how to live. Mark 11:1-11.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
The savior of the world is a servant. John 12:20-33.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
The salvation of Jesus changes our very nature. John 3:14-21.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln
When Jesus is allowed to enter the temple of your own life, what will he find? What pleases Jesus and what needs to change? John 2:13-25.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln
Jesus does not meet our expectations, he exceeds them. Mark 11:1-11.
Preacher: RJ Bacani, Executive Director, Covenant Cedars Bible Camp.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
Our circumstances do not define us or our relationship to God. Our response, primarily how we think about our circumstances, defines our relationship with God. Matthew 13:1-9, (18-23).
Preacher: Dr. Garrett Hope.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln/
Guard your life. Make sure that you are a seed and not a weed. Make sure your faith is in God and not in a person or persons. The righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom. Matthew 13:24-30, (36-43).
Preacher: Mark Schwarting.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln
The reality of the Kingdom is here. You can’t stop it; you can only respond to it. Matthew 13:31-33.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln
The Kingdom of Heaven is more valuable than anything else in this world (presently). The Kingdom of Heaven reshapes our values. Matthew 13:44-46.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln
While Jesus is still fishing, we live as God's Kingdom people. Matthew 13:47-50.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln
Full understanding is not needed to follow Jesus. Following Jesus is the only path that leads to understanding. Matthew 13:51-52.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln
A reading of some of the Scriptures we heard and studied as a church in 2023.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/@FirstCovLincoln
God does the impossible in Mary through the Holy Spirit. God promises the same for you and me. It all begins with Jesus. Luke 1:26-38.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Jesus is God. If only God is worthy of our worship, then Jesus is also worthy of our worship. Matthew 14:22-36.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Jesus is God. Jesus has the power to save. John 12:23-26; Daniel 7:13-14.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
God with us is the story of the Bible. Isaiah 9:6.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Peace is a reality that Jesus gives so we are not lost to worry and trouble. John 14:27.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Do I seek God’s baptism of my plans, or do I desire a transformed heart seeking God’s plans? Proverbs 16:1-3.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
We cannot know the plans of God unless we know the God who plans. Jeremiah 29:11.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Let’s not be kind of like Jesus. Let’s be kind, like Jesus. Ephesians 4:32.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Sometimes life isn’t easy. Always God is there. Joshua 1:9.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Galatians 3:5-17. Preacher: Maryruth Farmer.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Matthew 11:28. Preacher: Dr. Garrett Hope
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Galatians 2:20. Preacher: Mark Schwarting.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Pulpit share with Encouragement Kingdom Outreach.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Pulpit share with Encouragement Kingdom Outreach.
Guest Preacher: Pastor John Harris
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
God’s will becomes clearer when the Holy Spirit is transforming you. Romans 12:1.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Delight in God’s wisdom, it is the path of real life. Proverbs 3:5-6.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
In revealing what causes our anxiety, we demonstrate trust in God. Philippians 4:6.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Disciples of Jesus live truthfully. 1 Timothy 6:11-21.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
True contentment requires something greater than our needs met for now,it requires hope in more to come. 1 Timothy 6:2b-10.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
2 Corinthians 4:7-12.
Guest Preacher: Neil Taylor. Pastor and Author, The Great Unfixables.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Regardless of your circumstances, your conduct should be that of Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 5:23-6:2a.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln/
- https://www.youtube.com/
Our character in the church has everything to do with our witness outside the church. 1 Timothy 5:1-22.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
What you say and do as a disciple impacts the salvation of others. 1 Timothy 4:11-16.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
We have been entrusted with the message of salvation. 1 Timothy 4:1-10.
Preacher: Mark Schwarting.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Our character in the church has everything to do with our witness outside the church. 1 Timothy 3:1-16.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Is God’s good work transforming you? 1 Timothy 2:8-15.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
There is a direct correlation between prayer and joy for the Disciple of Christ. 1 Timothy 2:1-7.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Followers of Christ are to live in truth and love. A life of truth and love leads towards clarity, not chaos. 1 Timothy 1:8-17.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
A healthy diet of truth and love nourishes the disciple of Christ. 1 Timothy 1:1-7, 18-20.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Christian success does not necessarily equate to pleasing God. Judges 2:1-5.
Preacher: Dr. Garrett Hope.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Love of neighbor results from freedom in Christ. Galatians 5:13-14.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Committing to Jesus means commitment to his people. Hebrews 3:13.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Generosity is an act of worship. 2 Corinthians 9:10-11.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
How you worship reflects how you walk with Christ. Hebrews 10:19-25.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Psalm 1:1-3.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
God is working around us even when we can’t see it. God’s presence is a blessing, one we are intended to share. Luke 24:13-35.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
On the first Easter morning, Jesus was raised from the dead by the power of God. The resurrection is your invitation to God’s family. Jesus’ resurrection opens up for all people a new spiritual and physical reality. Acts 10:34-43.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Give thanks go the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Psalm 118:19-29.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
The character of Christ should be your character. Matthew 23:23-24.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
We are created to work; our calling is to work for God’s glory. Genesis 25:18-34.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Followers of Christ are light in a dark world.
Ephesians 4:11-14.
Preacher: Jason Kirsch (Nebraska Christian Leaders Forum).
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Followers of Christ are light in a dark world.
Colossians 3:23-24.
Preacher: Mark Schwarting.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Followers of Christ are light in a dark world.
1 Peter 2:1-1.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
With God we have a home and a purpose. Without God we are homeless and aimless.
Psalm 90:13-17.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
To develop a heart of wisdom, we must prioritize what God values and indulge in a diet of God's goodness.
Psalm 90:7-12.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
With God we have a home and a purpose. Without God we are homeless and aimless.
Psalm 90:1-6.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Where do you hold God back with your expectations?
John 11:45-57.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
When Jesus weeps, He shows that the hope he provides is not just for later, it is also for now.
John 11:28-44.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
What are your expectations of Jesus? Where do you believe he can do something, but probably won’t?
John 11:17-27.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Jesus is already close. Just as Mary and the Shepherds were forever changed by Jesus, if we will simply receive him, we too will be changed forever.
Luke 2:1-20.
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
We are called as saints to live holy lives, who call others to become saints who live holy lives.
Romans 1:1-7
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Celebrating 130 years of ministry in Lincoln, NE.
Colossians 3:1-4
Guest Preacher: Rev. Lyle Person
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Practice acceptance through encouragement.
Romans 15:1-13
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Though we don’t know the hour, we know how to act until Christ’s return.
Romans 13:11-14
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
God deserves a proper response from His Creation.
Psalm 8
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Matthew 22:23-33
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Mark 14:3-9
Preacher: Dr. Garrett Hope
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Revelation 4:1-6
Preacher: Brian Johnson, Acting Superintendent, Midwest Conference of the Evangelical Covenant Church
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Matthew 5:16
Preacher: John Harris, Encouragement Kingdom Outreach
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Ephesians 2:4-7
Preacher: Mark Schwarting
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Jesus came as God in a Body to make a new people. Baptism is a response to God’s work of making that new people. Baptism is an act that proclaims, “these are my people” and the grace of God is the only reason I can be a member.
Matthew 3:13-17
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
You will never do God’s will if your will takes priority.
Malachi 3:13-4:6
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
A generous person knows the proper value of things.
Malachi 3:6-12
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
God gives us opportunities for restoration. Never let a wall or distraction keep you from God’s invitation back to him.
Malachi 2:17-3:5
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Malachi 2:10-16.
Preacher: Mark Schwarting
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
**This sermon deals with divorce. We recognize that this is a complicated issue that cannot be covered in one message. If you need to discuss a specific situation or want to ask more questions, contact Pastor Evan at office@firstcovenantchurch.org or call the office, (402) 489-8869.
When we lack any sense of humility before God, greed and selfishness are bound to follow.
Malachi 2:1-9
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
When you love God, your life involves lots of thanksgiving & praise.
Malachi 1:14b
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Disciples of Jesus set their hearts and minds on things above.
Colossians 3:1-4
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
The work of the resurrection didn’t stop after Jesus ascended.
Acts 1:1-14.
Preacher: Maryruth Farmer
Maryruth is the Worship and Youth Ministry Director at Ceresco Covenant Church.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
How goes your walk with Jesus today?
Colossians 1:21-23
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
If you want to know God's will, pray.
Colossians 1:9
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
- Our freedom should be enjoyed. 2. Our freedom should not be an imposition to others.
Galatians 5
Preacher: Mark Schwarting
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
When you say "yes" to Jesus, you say "yes" to his family.
Galatians 3:23-29
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
God's better far exceeds our best. God offers his best in Jesus Christ.
Galatians 2:19-21.
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
Transformation is required to live in God's family as his children.
Romans 8:14-17.
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
The wise have better outcomes than the foolish.
Proverbs 13:3, 14-16; James 3:9-18
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
God is good. He wants us to be good too.
Proverbs 22:1-2.
Preacher: Pastor Evan.
- Small Group Questions.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
From head to toe, fools exploit and misuse what God intended for good.
Proverbs 6:16-19.
Preacher: Pastor Evan
- Small Group Questions.
- https://firstcovenantlincoln.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/FirstCovLincoln
- https://www.youtube.com/
The wise are discerning. • The discerning pay attention • The discerning are decisive. • The discerning know why they make their decisions.
Proverbs 8:6-11.
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg
The wise find reward, the foolish find failure. It's not karma, it’s the fear of God, and it will get you a long way in this world. In fact, it will make life in this world worth living. Come study Proverbs in May and learn how wisdom makes life worth living.
Proverbs 1:7; 9:8-12
Preacher: Pastor Evan Westburg
John 19:6-12; Isaiah 65:17-25; John 20:11-18.
The promise of God is a better tomorrow beginning today.
Isaiah 50:1-10
God is able to save. We need to be saved. Salvation comes to those who begin by admitting fault.
Psalm 119:10-11.
All that we need if found in God's word. (But you've actually got to read it).
Ready to Study the Bible? Find our steps for Bible study sheet here.
Hebrews 4:12.
Preacher: Mark Schwarting
"Stop trying to produce the Christian life and start allowing the Holy Spirit to produce it in you."
All that we need is found in God's word - and it is best studied with his people. (Titus 2)
By nature, we are estranged from God. By God’s Spirit we are made right with God. Romans 8:5
Genesis 25:19-34 You can’t always control your circumstances, but you can choose to be faithful to God. (Parents illustrate faithfulness, the children struggle with what that looks like) God has no grandchildren Choosing God is choosing good The reverse is not necessarily the case Will God still bless if I work against His will? (If I sin) Even with a difficult beginning, God’s promise can still be fulfilled. God’s work can still be done
Genesis 24:34-67 Rebekah leaves something good behind willingly for God's promise. Where has God called you to do the same?
Genesis 22: 1-18
God’s promises are sound and we can have faith in His provision. Testing is an invitation to deepen our faith.
Genesis 21:8-21. Trusting God’s Ways.
Sometimes we are waiting on God’s promises to be fulfilled. While we wait, God still wants us to trust. God is faithful to fulfill His Promises; are you faithful to wait on Him?
At First Covenant Lincoln, we Connect • Grow • Go
God’s Promises are Good
Genesis 18:1-15
Key Text: Genesis 18:14a. “Is anything too hard for the LORD?”
Key Idea: God is good on his promises.
It is God's nature to bless. God blesses by making order from chaos and inviting us into His order out of our chaos.
Genesis 1:1-2:3
Acts 2:1-21
Spiritual awakening is never a one-off event, but a process of letting go and trusting.
1 Peter 5:6-11
A humble hope says “God is in control” even if it feels like I should be anxious instead.
1 Peter 2:2-10
In the midst of troubling times, Peter reminded the Church of their Identity. This is who God says you are! You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. Once you were not a people, but now you are!
Whatever your circumstances, your conduct is your witness. Be found faithful to God under any circumstances.
What God did with Jesus is what God will do with those who receive His mercy: God wants to make you a new creation.
John 20:1-18. Where do your expectations need to realign to what God is doing in your life?
When we faithfully serve in the name of Jesus, we may discover that God's Holy Spirit will give us new and unexpected opportunities.
We are a people of courage and encouragement. We worship a good God. Hebrews 10:24-25 & Psalm 95:6-7.
If you are a follower of Jesus, you should be more like Jesus tomorrow than you are today.
How do you walk with God when things get tough? When you feel stuck? When what you expected God to do is not what God is actually doing?
It’s a simple truth, but one that trips up believers everywhere: You can’t be healthy spiritually if you’re unhealthy emotionally. During this series, we will take a close look at what it means to break free from bondage to the past and experience true emotional healing.
God has given us life, love, forgiveness, relationship and so much more. We were created by a generous God to take on His character. God is generous. It is God's character. Is it yours?
God has given us life, love, forgiveness, relationship and so much more. We were created by a generous God to take on His character. God is generous. It is God's character. Is it yours?
Freedom is good. We live in a free country, we like it when kids eat free on Tuesdays, and we like to enjoy free samples. The moment freedom asks something from us, we have a problem. Have you found real freedom?
Freedom must be proclaimed and lived before transformation can begin. Galatians 1:10-12.
Big decisions require Christ-like behavior. Ephesians 4:4-6. Ephesians 4:32. Hebrews 4:14-16.
When opposition tries to keep you from pursuing God's will, let God use it to strengthen you and trust Him to give you victory. Ezra 4:1-24.
How do you see God acting as Father today? How are you acting as a child of the Father? Matthew 6:9.
What myths do you believe about reaching your neighbors with God's good news? Matthew 22:34-40.
What would happen if everyone made it a point to know and befriend their literal neighbors? Matthew 22:34-40.
Find Slides & Scripture at https://faithlife.com/fcc-7t/activity
Acts 3:1-10. Who is sitting at the Beautiful Gate in our neighborhood?
Find Slides & Scripture at https://faithlife.com/fcc-7t/activity
True Joy springs from experiencing the promises and presence of God. Luke 21:25-31.
Find Slides & Scripture at https://faithlife.com/fcc-7t/activity
Who's the boss in your life? John 18:33-37.
Find Slides & Scripture at https://faithlife.com/fcc-7t/activity
How do we find right when things are wrong? Joel 2:21-27.
Find Slides & Scripture at https://faithlife.com/fcc-7t/activity
God's best is experienced when God's people seek truth. Lamentations 3:39-40.
Find Slides & Scripture at https://faithlife.com/fcc-7t/activity
Forgiveness is the path to freedom. Acts 15:36-41.
Find Slides & Scripture at https://faithlife.com/fcc-7t/activity
Confession is the path to freedom. Proverbs 28:13.
Find Slides & Scripture at https://faithlife.com/fcc-7t/activity
Luke 10:30-37
Mark Schwarting is a member of First Covenant with a gift for speaking God's word with clarity and truth.
1 Corinthians 1:13. In Baptism God's grace is made visible. What effect has the baptized community had on you?
John 6:51-58. In Jesus you are invited to become one of his own. In Jesus you are invited to receive your new and true identity.
Your conscience is God-given and can only be understood when measured against truth. Mark 6:14-29.
Mark 5:21-43. Do you dare to believe Jesus has any real power to change your real life?
Mark 4:35-41.
We are not promised a life of no danger, pain, or threat but we do have a promise that we will never be abandoned.
Garrett is the Director of Worship at First Covenant Lincoln.
Exodus 15:22-27. Worship God in all seasons so you have a reservoir of hope in the hard seasons.
Resurrection Sunday // Acts 10:42-43
What sin broke, God fixed. Jesus rose from the dead so you could too.
Distractions // 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
Allow obedient listening to lead to obedient living.
Contemplation // 1 Corinthians 14:14-15
Allow obedient listening to lead to obedient living.
Listen // 1 Samuel 3:1-13
Patty Thompson is the Director of Prayer and Leadership Mobilization for the Midwest Conference of the ECC (midwestcovenant.org/staff/).
Pray // Ephesians 6:18
If you are light, God provides all you need to remain light and defeat darkness.
Strength // Ephesians 6:10-17
If you are light, God provides all you need to remain light and defeat darkness.
Light // Ephesians 5:8-10
If you believe in God’s promises, you will walk in God’s ways.
Maturity // Ephesians 4:11-16
We are to use the gifts God has given us so that the body (the church) grows.
Revelation 7:9-17. Mike Bingeman is a member of First Covenant and a chaplain in the Bryan-LGH Hospital network.
Message delivered on the 125th anniversary of the founding of First Covenant Church, Lincoln.
Featured speaker, Tammy Swanson-Draheim is the Superintendent of the Midwest Conference of the Evangelical Covenant Church.
Preparing for Glory // 2 Peter 3:8-15
Holiness: to want what God wants and live accordingly.
Waiting for Glory // 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
God's people are to be made holy so they reveal God's glory.
Grace // Romans 6:15-23
Faith is our reception of God’s grace. Grace is God’s work of reclaiming His beloved Creation.
Christ alone // Romans 3:21-26
You can be self-righteous but you can't make yourself righteous. Only Jesus can do that.
Glory // Romans 1:16-17
Righteousness is a gift. Righteousness is relational. God wants a right relationship with you.
A Holy People // Ephesians 3:14-19
Through the power of God's Holy Spirit, we are transformed from becoming whole persons to becoming a holy people.
Life in the multitude // Ephesians 2:11-18
Peace among God's people breaks the walls of division.
Mission & Church // Ephesians 1:17, 22-23
God's glory is revealed when His people are gathered in worship.
Kingdom people // Matthew 25:31-46
Guest preacher: Rev. Dr. Glenn Palmberg, former president of the Evangelical Covenant Church.
Who rules your life? // Acts 13:21-22, 36-39
God's work for your best frees you to work for God's best.
Loving Kindness // 2 Samuel 9:1-13
God pursues you. God is committed to you. God offers you a feast in a world of junk food and a family in a world with a need to belong.
Will you approach and accept God's invitation to the table?
Obedience // 1 Samuel 31:1-31
Pride kills. Disobedience brings death. Godly obedience brings life.
Character // 1 Samuel 24:1-15
Godly character is not accidental. Godly character must be formed.
Contentment // 1 Samuel 20:30-34
Small steps towards self get us in trouble. Small steps towards God bring freedom.
Obedience // 1 Samuel 13:13-14
Obedience is a tool God uses to shape you. God desires obedience because God loves you.
Discipleship // Matthew 28:19-20 & 1 Timothy 4:12
Jim Eaton is the director of the Resonate Discipleship Experience at Covenant Cedars Bible Camp (http://www.cedars.org/).
Grace // Matthew 2:13-23
Michael Bingeman is a member of First Covenant Church, a graduate of North Park Theological Seminary, and a Board Certified Chaplain.
What is Generosity? // 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
*Mark Mathewson is the Theologian in Residence at Lincoln Berean Church (http://www.lincolnberean.org/).
Romans 12:1
Tammy Swanson-Draheim is the Superintendent of the Midwest Conference of the ECC.