Castle Oaks Sermons: Recent Episodes
Castle Oaks
"Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?”
John 4:27
Love is in the Details (part 1)
“It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God."
For The Love! Series
Pure Religion
What God the Father considers to be pure and genuine religion is this: to take care of orphans and widows in their suffering and to keep oneself from being corrupted by the world.
For The Love! Series
It's Not About You
All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another.
1 Peter 5:5b
For The Love! Series
So, God’s message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.
Questions That Matter Series
Why do you call me, "Lord, Lord," and do not do what I say?
Questions That Matter.
Don’t You See That Nothing That Enters A Person From The Outside Can Defile Them?
The right question at the right time can be incredibly powerful. Jesus has a way of Removing all distractions and getting to the heart of the matter. This is wonderful and terribly frightening, at the same time. Wonderful because we don’t want to waste time on things that aren’t important, side issues, and meaningless distractions. Frightening because we are at once stripped of our excuses, our motives laid bare, and our hearts feel a bit exposed. Thankfully, Jesus asks every one of his questions with love at the center. His questions illuminate a God that wants the very best for us, on our behalf — guiding us toward a full and fulfilling existence.
This Summer we will focus on one question that Jesus asks each week.
In the first chapter of Acts, the apostles have a decision to make. Their method is fascinating and a bit confusing. We often have decisions to make while we are in between. We can learn a lot from these servants of the early church.
For our first question from the Gospels, Jesus interacts with a man who has been sick for a long time. The question helps us ponder our own need to surrender to Jesus.
As we wrap up this series we will introduce a concept that will help us move through, and thoughtfully navigate, this time in between.
For the last few weeks of this series, we will leave the Gospels behind and focus our attention on Luke's historical account in the first two chapters of Acts.
As Jesus and Peter are wrapping up their conversation, we are given another important idea to carry with us into the time in between.
Peter has questions, and Jesus has an answer. However, Jesus' answer is frustrating to Peter. It might take the rest of Peter's life to comprehend the profound completeness of Jesus' words.
Jesus and a group of disciples spend some time together in a very familiar setting. Sometimes our encounters with God happen in the most everyday places, in very common ways.
Jesus and a group of disciples spend some time together in a very familiar setting. Sometimes our encounters with God happen in the most everyday places, in very common ways.
After the Resurrection, it seems as if the waiting is just beginning for the disciples. In fact, the followers of Jesus will find themselves waiting for 50 days until the Day of Pentecost and the beginning of the Church.
For the next few weeks, we'll talk about why waiting is so hard, how it helps us grow, and how it can sometimes trip us up in our faith.
On this Easter Sunday, we'll look at the last two meals in the Gospel of Luke. May our deepest hopes be shaped and transformed by the God of the Resurrection.
We are beginning to understand what is happening with all of the meal stories in the Gospel of Luke. Let's dig a little deeper as we look further at Luke 14 and The Parable of the Great Banquet.
We are beginning to understand what is happening with all of the meal stories in the Gospel of Luke. Let's dig a little deeper as we take another look at Luke 14 and The Parable of the Great Banquet.
Jesus is invited to a dinner event in the home of a prominent Jewish leader. The dinner vividly illustrates certain values of first century Palestinian life that are at the center of contention and controversy throughout the Gospel of Luke.
Before we get to the Parable of The Great Banquet, let's dig into a few other passages from Luke's Gospel that help set the table. We'll take a closer look at those who attended Matthew's party and why it was so upsetting to the religious leaders.
Before we get to the Parable of The Great Banquet, let's dig into a few other passages from Luke's Gospel that help set the table. We'll start with a scandalous feast with Jesus as the guest of (dis)honor.
Many of Jesus' parables, and many of his experiences recorded in the Gospels, happen at the dinner table. The table is a sacred space, and relationships forged over the provision of food teach us so much about God's love and mercy.
As we wrap up this series, we'll consider each season and synthesize the lessons we've learned from the life of Joseph.
As Joseph enters the Winter of his life, he begins to use his resources to repair relationships and focus thoughtfully on what matters most.
As we move into Fall, we find that it is a season filled with a bountiful harvest as well as some unique temptations.
As Joseph moves into the Summer of his life, we can see God at work, providing for him in every season. The same is true with each of us — God always gives us what we need.
“It is beyond my power to do this,” Joseph replied.
"But God can tell you what it means and set you at ease.”
Genesis 41:16 (NLT)
As the story of young Joseph's life unfolds, he learns some harsh lessons about relationships, hopes, and dreams. Today, as we read the story, may we learn from Joseph's life how to navigate new beginnings with love and compassion.
Here in Colorado, it seems like we can experience all four seasons in the same day — the calendar isn't much help when it comes to predicting the weather. The seasons of our life are just as difficult to predict. As we begin 2024, we'll take a look at how different seasons of our life call for different things.
Of course, the birth of Jesus is just the beginning. Matthew and Luke give us a glimpse of what is to come with a few events that occur in the early days of Jesus' life.
On this Christmas Eve we'll celebrate the birth of Jesus, and we are reminded that the unexpected coming of our Savior represents the experiences of our lives as well — we do not know what the day will bring, but we can trust our past, present, and future to the One who loves us completely.
On this Christmas Eve we'll celebrate the birth of Jesus, and we are reminded that the unexpected coming of our Savior represents the experiences of our lives as well — we do not know what the day will bring, but we can trust our past, present, and future to the One who loves us completely.
If there is one word that describes the events leading up to the birth of Jesus, it might be, "unexpected." Through this Advent season, we will reflect on these unexpected happenings while we learn how to thoughtfully navigate some of the unexpected events in our own lives.
If there is one word that describes the events leading up to the birth of Jesus, it might be, "unexpected." Through this Advent season, we will reflect on these unexpected happenings while we learn how to thoughtfully navigate some of the unexpected events in our own lives.
In this pre-Advent message, we will set the stage for the coming month as we thoughtfully consider the relationship between difficult times, gratitude, and our own spiritual growth.
Matthew concludes the Sermon On The Mount with an overarching teaching from Jesus about enduring and surviving difficult times. We’ll spend one more week focused on these six verses and conclude our Follower message series this week.
Matthew Concludes the Sermon on the Mount with an overarching teaching from Jesus about enduing and surviving difficult times.
This week's podcast includes an interview with the leaders of an NGO, Ideas International. Ideas Int was started long-time Castle Oaks members, Stan & Tami Brown and is now under the leadership of a new Executive Director, Gabrielle Thompson. The interview is followed by some thoughts on Jesus' teaching about salt and light in the Sermon on the Mount.
Jesus connects one of his well-known statements (the Golden Rule) with an often misunderstood metaphor. Again this week, we'll do our best to discern the meaning behind, "the narrow way."
Jesus connects one of his well-known statements (the Golden Rule) with an often misunderstood metaphor. Again this week, we'll do our best to discern the meaning behind, "the narrow way."
Jesus connects one of his well-known statements (the Golden Rule) with an often misunderstood metaphor. For two weeks, we'll do our best to discern the meaning behind, "the narrow way."
Our text today calls us to ask, to seek, and to knock - to pray - and in it, Jesus promises answers as well as some reason for hope in-between.
These verses in Jesus’ well known sermon don’t mention the word love ... but, they contain some of the most practical teaching about relational love found in the Gospels. Again this week, we will dig into what Jesus says and how we might live it out each day.
These verses in Jesus’ well known sermon don’t mention the word love ... but, they contain some of the most practical teaching about relational love found in the Gospels. For the next two weeks, we will dig into what Jesus says and how we might live it out each day.
"Seek first God’s kingdom and what God wants. Then all your other needs will be met as well." Matthew 6:33 (NCV)
Jesus has a lot to say about money. In our text for this week he addresses where much of our anxiety comes from by inviting us to rethink our values and priorities.
Two thousand years ago, Jesus addressed the issue that seems to plague our lives and our culture today: anxiety and worry. His teaching directs us to deal head-on with our anxious hearts and our habit of worry.
Jesus describes a spirituality that is decidedly counter-cultural midway through the Sermon on the Mount. His teaching gives us an opportunity to thoughtfully consider how we encounter God's presence and grow in grace.
Jesus describes a spirituality that is decidedly counter-cultural midway through the Sermon on the Mount. His teaching gives us an opportunity to thoughtfully consider how we encounter God's presence and grow in grace.
A couple of years ago we began a message series based on the Sermon on the Mount. This week we return to that series, adding Luke's Sermon on the Plain to our scripture passages we'll be studying.
May the teachings of Jesus shape our faith and order our steps.
Walking on water requires us to get out of the boat. God is asking for our attention and our obedience.
The words we use and our speech have so much power--power to build up and to tear down. How is it so easy to in one breath praise God and in the next use words for ill? What is truly at the root of those words that tumble all too easily out of our mouths?
The song lyrics that Jesus prayed from the cross give us permission to lament and a roadmap for navigating our way through difficult times.
Many of the songs in our scriptures serve the important purpose of helping us deal with loss, grief, disappointment, and sadness. This is true of some of our favorite songs as well.
This all points us to an eternal truth: Hope does not have a chance unless we face all that we have lost.
In the first words of Colossians, we find a beautiful picture of what has been, how things are now, and what will ultimately be.
David writes an incredibly personal song giving us some significant insights into his relationship with God.
This week we return to the story of John the Baptist in Matthew 11 to help us understand the relationship between what we think and what we feel in regards to our faith and how music brings both together.
Letting Go & Trusting God - Phil Vaughan // Luke 1: 67-80 // Church in the Park
One of the first songs in the New Testament is written by a dad who has the same struggle we all have: learning to let go and trust God with a life that has been entrusted to our love and care.
Music is deeply connected to our feelings and emotions. Today we'll explore that connection and dig into Jesus' words about the relationship between the music we hear and our emotional reactions.
We launch a new Summer Message Series this Sunday. Summer Hits: Best songs in the Bible. We will be digging deep into the songs of scripture while we thoughtfully consider the impact music has on our hearts, our minds, and our faith.
As we wrap up this series, we'll harvest some of the agricultural wisdom from various scriptures while we claim the promise of the humble mustard seed.
Jesus points us to seeds many times to illustrate the mystery of growth. A parable that is unique to the Gospel of Mark will help us embrace this mystery and shape our spiritual habits.
Behold the symbolic Fig Tree. From the beginning pages of scripture, fig trees play an important role. Throughout the Gospels, fig trees are used to teach us valuable truths about faith, life, and growth. Again this week, we'll dig a little deeper in these passages.
Behold the symbolic Fig Tree. From the beginning pages of scripture, fig trees play an important role. Throughout the Gospels, fig trees are used to teach us valuable truths about faith, life, and growth. For the next two weeks, we'll dig a little deeper in these passages.
Springtime. The promise of new life. A tender shoot emerging from a forest floor. As a new season arrives, we will lean on scriptures that point our attention to seeds, dirt, the farming life, and growth in Christ.
Jesus says, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." This sounds nice (#blessed), but how can it possibly be true?
As Jesus completes His journey to Jerusalem, Holy Week is beginning, and the city is overflowing with people. As we move toward Good Friday, Jesus gives us a surprising picture of what His Kingdom will be like.
As we celebrate the 10 year anniversary of moving into our current facility, we will reflect on the words of Jesus in Luke 14.
As Jesus interacts with his friends -Mary, Martha, and Lazarus- he completely unravels what many of us believe about life and death.
On his way into Jerusalem, Jesus spends time with some friends going through a difficult time.
As Jesus begins his final journey to Jerusalem, he has a discussion with the disciples about ambition, hopes, and the best use for power.
We are pleased to welcome Dave Ward this Sunday. Dave is a graduate of Denver Seminary with 25 years of pastoral experience. His wife, Angie, works at Denver Seminary in their Doctor of Ministry program. The Wards have two sons in college and a beagle at home.
As we wrap up this series, we’ll use two scripture passages to give us a framework for using our Examen Prayer.
We'll introduce a helpful prayer tool as we try build a daily habit of self-reflection.
We'll look further at the wisdom literature from our Old Testament as we chart a course for the race we're training for and running in.
The wisdom literature from our Old Testament will be helpful as we begin to chart a specific course for the race we're training for and running in.
Athletic metaphors have been used for spiritual purposes since ancient times. The Apostle Paul points our attention to their usefulness on multiple occasions, spurring us on to diligently focus on what matters most.
Instant Replay has been an integral part of sports for decades. It's also a part of our daily lives. Well, not literally. However, God did give us the capacity to remember and to creatively imagine who we might be if we trusted God more, loved more fully, or maybe just kept our ego out of the conversation. In our first sermon series of 2023. we'll work toward integrating a habit of spiritual reflection into our daily lives.
On this first day of 2023, we will celebrate Communion as we look forward to the coming year with thoughtful anticipation and hope.
Doesn't Christmas seem like a risky plan? To place the redemption of all humankind into the birth of a fragile infant? It might be God's boldest move ever — to trust us with caring for and nurturing Jesus.
On this, our fourth Sunday of Advent, we learn valuable lessons from the extended family of Jesus about waiting and leaning on each other while we wait.
“To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.”
We'll conclude The Scroll series this week, exploring once more the real and practical ways these Scripture passages are true and effective. When Jesus said, "this prophecy has been fulfilled in your hearing," he was giving us a beautiful picture of what our faith looks like in our lives and the lives of others.
Throughout this series we will explore the real and practical ways these Scripture passages are true and effective. When Jesus said, “this prophecy has been fulfilled in your hearing,” he was giving us a beautiful picture of what our faith looks like in our lives and the lives of others.
Throughout this series we will explore the real and practical ways these Scripture passages are true and effective. When Jesus said, “this prophecy has been fulfilled in your hearing,” he was giving us a beautiful picture of what our faith looks like in our lives and the lives of others.
Throughout this series we will explore the real and practical ways these Scripture passages are true and effective. When Jesus said, “this prophecy has been fulfilled in your hearing,” he was giving us a beautiful picture of what our faith looks like in our lives and the lives of others.
In our very first pre-Advent series, we will be preparing our hearts for the month of December by taking a close look at Jesus' first sermon in his hometown of Nazareth.
The faith-shifting events in the Book of Acts have their origins in the teachings and experiences of Jesus. We'll finish this series today by looking at how Jesus' words and actions reverse deeply held Jewish beliefs and practices.
The shifts made by the early church can help us as we go through faith transitions. Today we’ll begin drawing some final conclusions using the stories of Acts as our guide.
As the early church begins to welcome Gentile believers into their fellowship, they face a massive theological crisis and collectively must engage in an almost unthinkable shift in beliefs and practice.
If your beliefs have ever shifted or changed, then you are not alone. The Bible provides all kinds of examples of individuals and groups who reshape their theological convictions. If we pay close attention to the narratives, we will find some help along the way as our faith grows and evolves.
Through this new series, we’ll be exploring why we believe what we believe and what happens when our faith shifts and changes.
We'll wrap up this series on the parables with the Parable of the Sower. Jesus uses a simple metaphor to illustrate what it means to be humble and teachable.
Jesus turns a question from Peter into a teachable moment for all of us as we thoughtfully consider the people we resent, hold grudges against, and refuse to forgive.
The parable of the dishonest manager is one of the most confusing passages in the Gospels. We will use this unique story for a second week to help us uncover our feelings and perspectives about money and resources.
The parable of the dishonest manager is one of the most confusing passages in the Gospels. For two weeks we will use this unique story to help us uncover our feelings and perspectives about money and resources.
This week we will be praying for our teachers, school administrators, students, bus drivers, school employees, and parents as the school year begins. This passage in the Sermon on the Mount will help us frame our hopes and dreams for the coming year.
The parable of the sheep and the goats helps provide clarity on what it looks like to be a follower of Jesus and challenges us to love more boldly - not because we have to, but because we can.
In a continuation of last week's passage and message, Jesus creates more tension at a community dinner. He tells one more parable that likely left a significant impression on the listeners. We're hoping it has the same effect on us today.
While at a banquet, Jesus uses the occasion to talk about honor, humility, and who should have been invited. His teaching should shape the way we approach our priorities and our relationships.
What happens when ideas and opinions turn into judgments? We find ourselves in dangerous territory. Jesus has a lot to say about one of our favorite pastimes.
What happens when ideas and opinions turn into judgments? We find ourselves in dangerous territory. Jesus has a lot to say about one of our favorite pastimes.
Jesus tells this story of a master and three servants to help us learn three important truths about faithfulness, stewardship, and opportunity.
Jesus tells a story that we have traditionally called The Prodigal Son. That title, however, only tells half of the story. God's unconditional love is larger and more comprehensive than our hearts and minds can begin to fathom.
Luke records a peculiar and unique story that has puzzled and fascinated Bible readers throughout history. This parable will help us all thoughtfully consider how we live and how we use the resources we have.
Near the beginning of his ministry, Jesus uses an analogy to explain why his friends, and some of his gatherings, are atypical for a 1st-century rabbi.
Before we jump into the parables of Jesus, we want to lay some foundational ideas and principles that will help us learn and grow together. For the second week, we'll look at a few more passages that will help us deepen our understanding of growth and why we often get stuck in our journey with God.
Before we jump into the parables of Jesus, we want to lay some foundational ideas and principles that will help us learn and grow together. For the next two weeks, we'll be looking at a few passages that will help us deepen our understanding of growth and why we often get stuck in our journey with God.
This week we begin a new series digging into the parables that Jesus tells throughout the Gospels. Jesus, the master storyteller, uses profound and simple stories to reveal the nature of God’s Kingdom and so much more.
The last words of John's Gospel help us understand one of the issues that can hinder our faith and complicate our relationships.
The resurrection is the final piece of the faith puzzle that helps us understand what this life is all about.
A confrontation in the Garden. Peter's denial. Jesus' discussion with Pilate.
We will look to the 18th Chapter of John to prepare our hearts as we enter Holy Week.
“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.”
John 17:20-21
Remaining in Jesus’ love sounds desirable and doable, but He repeats the word remain an awful lot in this chapter. Maybe it’s not so easy. Jesus tells us how to stay attached.
Jesus has a conversation with two disciples, Thomas and Philip, that we get to learn from. He answers questions about where we are headed, who God is, and how the Holy Spirit will help us along the way.
As Jesus shares a final meal with his friends, he uses a simple act of love as an example that will shape the rest of their lives. In light of Will French’s beginning to this series, this one act has the potential to shape our calling in powerful ways.
This week’s text leads us to the triumphal entry, which is, to this point, the culmination of Jesus’ ministry on earth. Jesus, however, knows what is to come and knows the call before him in the coming week.
What do you feel Christ has called you to in your life? What is our response when we receive the call from God?
In preparation for the Lenten season, we will be looking at a few passages in the first part of John's gospel.
During Lent, we will journey through the second half of John, where he gives us an intimate and detailed account of the last week of Jesus' life.
In preparation for the Lenten season, we will be looking at a few passages in the first part of John's gospel.
During Lent, we will journey through the second half of John, where he gives us an intimate and detailed account of the last week of Jesus' life.
We know that life can throw lots of obstacles in our path. Some are mere distractions, and some are serious hurdles that can leave us injured, depleted, and weary. For the next few weeks, we will use the wisdom of scripture to give us insight and strength for the journey.
We know that life can throw lots of obstacles in our path. Some are mere distractions, and some are serious hurdles that can leave us injured, depleted, and weary. For the next few weeks, we will use the wisdom of scripture to give us insight and strength for the journey.
We know that life can throw lots of obstacles in our path. Some are mere distractions, and some are serious hurdles that can leave us injured, depleted, and weary. For the next few weeks, we will use the wisdom of scripture to give us insight and strength for the journey.
The parable of the Good Samaritan may be Jesus’ best-known, but we don’t hear it the way his first hearers did. Phil gave the setup to this story—let’s dive right in to hear Jesus’ words anew in this season of RESTART. Grace comes in surprising ways and from sources we’d never suspect.
As we "take a new grip with our tired hands" and "mark out a straight path" for the coming year, this passage in Luke helps us clarify our priorities and remember what our lives are to be about.
In our first sermon series of 2022, we'll examine a few key areas of our lives that have taken a beating over the last several months. A few stories from Scripture will help us thoughtfully consider how to make some mid-course corrections for the coming months.
On this, the day after Christmas, we will explore the most un-Christmassy portion of the Gospel birth stories.
On this Christmas Eve, we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the True Light that gives light to everyone.
The 4th week of Advent gives us an opportunity to take a look at the deepest darkness before the "true light that gives light to everyone" comes into the world.
Last Sunday we learned that God created the darkness. This week Psalm 139 will help us understand why. Interviews with Aaron Boyd are featured in this message from both 1st and 2end service.
John gives a different Christmas story than the other Gospel authors. He ignites our imagination and helps us see the birth of Jesus in the light of creation. We'll use the first chapter of John to light our way this Christmas.
We'll wrap up this portion of our Follower series this week. We broke open anger last week, and we'll build on that by talking about our "enemies" and relational conflict. Let's resolve together to be the Salt and Light that Jesus describes by handling tough circumstances (and difficult people) according to His teachings.
We judge the severity of our anger on a sliding scale — from slightly irritated to a full-tilt rage. Jesus takes a different approach to one of the most "acceptable" sins in our culture.
Jesus frames the next section of teaching with two analogies that will help us thoughtfully live out our faith in a divided and harsh culture.
Last week we scratched the surface regarding the “righteousness and justice” of Matthew 5:6. Since Jesus instructs us to “hunger and thirst” for this, we will spend one more week trying to unpack what it all means.
Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with a curious list that has confounded and confused followers and seekers for generations. These statements that we commonly call "the Beatitudes" frame the entire sermon, so we'll spend a couple of weeks on these verses.
Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with a curious list that has confounded and confused followers and seekers for generations. These statements that we commonly call "the Beatitudes" frame the entire sermon, so we'll spend a couple of weeks on these verses.
Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with a curious list that has confounded and confused followers and seekers for generations. These statements that we commonly call "the Beatitudes" frame the entire sermon, so we'll spend a couple of weeks on these verses.
Before we begin our journey through the Sermon on the Mount, let's consider the encouragement and warning that Jesus gives at the end of his famous sermon.
An into to a new Castle Oaks series - "Follower", journeying through Jesus' sermon on the mount.
We have access to so much information and so much knowledge today, but information and knowledge alone don’t provide us perspective on life—how to make sense of it, or how to live it well. What do we need to understand in order to live life well? What perspective do we need to become the people God has created us to be?
This Sunday, we will explore some wisdom about life from one of the Bible’s wisest authors. In a poem from King Solomon, we will find perspective and encouragement from the Lord on how to live life well..
- Dave Ward
Jars of Clay
2 Corinthians 5
“And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.”
2 Cor. 5:18-19 NLT
“When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Now go out where it’s deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish.’
‘Master,’ Simon replied, ‘we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let down the nets again.’”
Luke 5:4-5
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us."
2 Cor. 4:7
Dear Church Family and Friends,
This Sunday, both services are all about hope. As the pandemic rages on, as the Taliban gains control of Afghanistan, and as Haiti recovers from a devastating earthquake, hope is in short supply.
Almost every story in scripture speaks to our current circumstances, but none as pointedly as the story of Abraham’s family. This Sunday let’s gather, both virtually and in person, as we invite an ancient story to deepen our hope.
And if you can’t attend one or both, the messages will be available online.
Much love to you all,
Phil
Dear Church Family and Friends,
This Sunday, both services are all about hope. As the pandemic rages on, as the Taliban gains control of Afghanistan, and as Haiti recovers from a devastating earthquake, hope is in short supply.
Almost every story in scripture speaks to our current circumstances, but none as pointedly as the story of Abraham’s family. This Sunday let’s gather, both virtually and in person, as we invite an ancient story to deepen our hope.
And if you can’t attend one or both, the messages will be available online.
Much love to you all,
Phil
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
Todd Slechta
President of Covenant Initiatives for Care
Evangelical Covenant Church
Covenant Initiatives for Care is a multi-faceted organization serving adults with developmental and cognitive disabilities, at-risk children, and young adults and their families in challenged and/or under-developed communities through a variety of ministries and partnerships.
Learn more here: www.covecare.org
Todd & Sheryl (and family) are long-time members of Castle Oaks, now residing in Chicago.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
When we gather for worship this summer, we will focus on One Verse of Scripture each week. Our hope is that each verse will shape our thoughts and actions as we follow Jesus in our everyday lives. May these summer months be a season of recalibration, ordering our values, and bringing us all to a deeper surrender to God.
We will gather at the Miller Park Amphitheater 5 times over these next few months of summer to worship together. For each of these services, we will focus on one verse of Scripture that will help us live more thoughtfully as followers of Jesus.
The way Jesus describes life in this passage doesn't seem to match up with our experience, especially our spiritual lives. I'm not sure many of us would describe our burden as, "light." So, what exactly is Jesus inviting us to in these verses? And, why do so few of us find it?
Reading a Psalm is like peeking into someone's private journal as they pour out their various feelings to a trusted friend and revered God. Sometimes the words mirror our own thoughts and emotions in powerful ways. Spend some time with this week's Psalm and thoughtfully consider the ideas that resonate with you.
Reading a Psalm is like peeking into someone's private journal as they pour out their various feelings to a trusted friend and revered God. Sometimes the words mirror our own thoughts and emotions in powerful ways. Spend some time with this week's Psalm and thoughtfully consider the ideas that resonate with you.
Reading a Psalm is like peeking into someone's private journal as they pour out their various feelings to a trusted friend and revered God. Sometimes the words mirror our own thoughts and emotions in powerful ways. Spend some time with this week's Psalm and thoughtfully consider the ideas that resonate with you.
What happens when God doesn't meet your expectations? How do you frame your life around a new reality, especially one you didn't see coming?
Throughout this past year, uncertainty and the fear of death have taken center stage all over the world. As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, let's take a few minutes to align our hopes and values with Easter's promise of new life.
Reading a Psalm is like peeking into someone's private journal as they pour out their various feelings to a trusted friend and revered God. Sometimes the words mirror our own thoughts and emotions in powerful ways. Spend some time with this week's Psalm as we move through the Lenten Season, preparing our hearts for Good Friday and our celebration of the Resurrection on Easter.
Reading a Psalm is like peeking into someone's private journal as they pour out their various feelings to a trusted friend and revered God. Sometimes the words mirror our own thoughts and emotions in powerful ways. Spend some time with this week's Psalm as we move through the Lenten Season, preparing our hearts for Good Friday and our celebration of the Resurrection on Easter.
Reading a Psalm is like peeking into someone's private journal as they pour out their various feelings to a trusted friend and revered God. Sometimes the words mirror our own thoughts and emotions in powerful ways. Spend some time with this week's Psalm as we move through the Lenten Season, preparing our hearts for Good Friday and our celebration of the Resurrection on Easter.
Who wants to have a great life? That almost seems like a rhetorical question in these tough times. However, in Psalm 1, God tells us there are two roads in life, with two different destinations. He wants us to choose the road to the blessed life in Him – the only way that goes well and ends well.
What are the things that leave you unsettled? What is our response to the things that might be difficult to name but leave our soul disquieted?
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lent season.
This service will focus on thoughtful reflection and repentance — a time to allow God’s Spirit to draw us close and consider how we might turn our hearts and minds toward following Jesus every day.
The 40 days of Lent represent Christ’s time of temptation in the wilderness, where he fasted and where Satan tempted him. Lent is a time set aside each year for self-denial, marking an intentional season of focus on Christ’s life, ministry, sacrifice, and resurrection.
Paul finishes his letter to the Ephesians with beautiful imagery and advice about how to live and thrive through difficult times.
Who is in charge? Who will make the decisions? The words in Ephesians 5 have been misused in appalling ways. Paul's instructions and advice about family relationships can transform our approach to each other, as long we read them with humility and a selfless mindset.
Paul has some pointed words for us as we make our way through the complexities of life and relationships. Don't move past the details too quickly, and don't miss the bigger picture. His words help us follow Jesus along the narrow road.
Words have immense power. We can use words to help others, or tear them down. Paul frames these choices in powerful ways as he encourages us to be thoughtful in our relationships.
We will pick up the "Packed" series where we left off in November and continue our journey together through the letter to the Ephesians. The final three chapters are packed with essentials for our travels during this challenging season.
Until Jesus establishes a new heaven and a new earth, we get to participate with him in building the kingdom now - one decision, one act of kindness and love, one act of mercy at a time.This Sunday, we'll look at some of the ways we are doing that at Castle Oaks.
As we begin the New Year together, let's think deeply about what it means to follow Jesus.
On this Christmas Eve, we celebrate the birth of Hope. May God give new meaning to the most familiar words of the Christmas narrative for all of us this year.
While our lives are rooted in a specific time in history, our hope is focused on eternity. The beginning of Luke 2 reminds us that history and eternity are connected in important ways.
The stories of Jesus' parents and John's parents continue to intersect. It seems that God is always telling His larger story through our relationships. Mary and Zechariah describe God's past faithfulness to increase our hope in the days to come.
Mary gets word from an angel that her life is about to take an unexpected turn. We can learn so much about hope from her response.
The Christmas story reminds us that hope is crucial to our life in Christ as we walk with each other. But, hope can seem distant, even absent...especially when our circumstances are tough.
The last part of Ephesians 3 includes one of the most profound and powerful prayers in the entire New Testament. Paul's words echo in our current times and connect us to the ancient church, reminding us that we are all in this together and God has already given us everything we need.
The last part of Ephesians 3 includes one of the most profound and powerful prayers in the entire New Testament. Paul's words echo in our current times and connect us to the ancient church, reminding us that we are all in this together and God has already given us everything we need.
There's one more piece to the puzzle as we wrap up our focus on this passage in Ephesians. If we're going to break free from "us & them" thinking, we must embrace grace in new and profound ways.
Do current conflicts come to mind as Paul details the division between the Gentiles and the Jewish people? Us & them, Republicans & Democrats, and so on. The divisions are numerous and deep. Not only does Paul talk about how we are one, he explains the reasons behind our hard-won unity.
Paul describes the immense power of grace as he explains how God has brought together Gentiles and those of Jewish heritage. When we see such stark divisions in our own culture the timely importance of Paul's message is clear: there is no barrier that God cannot dissolve.
Paul describes the immense power of grace as he explains how God has brought together Gentiles and those of Jewish heritage. When we see such stark divisions in our own culture the timely importance of Paul's message is clear: there is no barrier that God cannot dissolve.
Paul explains God's unlimited grace in beautiful language. Some of us have a hard time believing that God loves us in this powerful way. Some of us find it difficult to believe that God loves others with such unconditional love. Understanding both will enable us to love others the way Jesus does.
Dave is a graduate of Denver Seminary with 24 years of pastoral experience. His wife, Angie, works at Denver Seminary in their Doctor of Ministry program. Dave and Angie recently moved back to Denver from Indianapolis and have been worshipping with Castle Oaks since early June. The Wards have two sons in college and a beagle at home.
When Paul writes his letter to the church at Ephesus, he does not waste time in shallow waters. The first 14 verses of Chapter One are filled with rich truths that help shape our faith. Don't miss the beginning of our new series this Sunday.
As we wrap up this series we learn some crucial lessons about leadership, change, and how our own expectations can often derail us in significant ways.
Have you ever embarked on a self-improvement project? Have you ever become frustrated at your inability to change into a better version of yourself? You are not alone. A second group of Exiles return to the Promised Land under the leadership of a priest named Ezra. The Law takes center stage in the restoration efforts.
For a couple of weeks we will take a break from the exile's return and focus on a couple of chapters from the New Testament that speak to our current circumstances.
For a couple of weeks we will take a break from the exile's return and focus on a couple of chapters from the New Testament that speak to our current circumstances.
While the exiles are rebuilding the Temple, some dramatic events are unfolding in Persia. God's hand of providence is always at work, even when the odds are stacked against us.
When we have a big project to complete, we usually don't mind a little help. But, when a group of people offer help to the returning exiles, Zerubabbel refuses their offer. What happens after that creates all sorts of problems for the team rebuilding the Temple.
Once the rebuilding of the temple begins, the reactions are quite interesting. Additionally, there is significant opposition to the work. Just when you think we're all on the same team, something goes awry.
When the Exiles come home one of their key tasks is to reconstruct the Temple. The job they had before them is really the same task that is before us. But, translating their efforts into our own lives will require us to see our church with a new and fresh perspective.
The people of Israel begin the hard work of rebuilding. The tasks before them cause a wide variety of reactions from the people.
After a long and very eventful stay in Babylon, some of the Jewish exiles begin to make the journey home. It is the fulfillment of a specific prophecy that God gave to the prophet Jeremiah. As you might imagine, the journey home is a strange mix of fulfilled hopes and frustrating disappointments.
Before we join the Israelites on their journey home, let's take some time to learn how they ended up so far away from home. Their story of dispersion and captivity will teach us about our own habits of wandering from God.
Before we join the Israelites on their journey home, let's take some time to learn how they ended up so far away from home. Their story of dispersion and captivity will teach us about our own habits of wandering from God.
New Series: Return: The Way Home
In the latter part of our Old Testament the nation of Israel begins a journey from captivity and distant lands back to their home. There are some important lessons for us hidden in the stories of the return and the words of the prophets as we make a transition of our own.
Paul wraps up this letter to his friends with some insightful words about how we can stand firm even when life isn't quite turning out as we planned.
Paul provides some hopeful words for weary souls in the last half of Philippians chapter 3.
What are the most important accomplishments of your life? Paul gives us a list of his credentials and achievements and then tells how his faith in Christ has changed his perspective on everything.
Paul gives us a glimpse of some important relationships in his life and tells us how we can keep a good perspective through tough times.
Paul frames his life, and our relationships, within the context of the cross. The practical guidance he shares can transform how we relate to our friends and family.
What makes a life worth living? Paul explains it clearly in one of his shortest and most profound statements ever.
"We all seem to be stuck in a waiting room these days."
We're waiting for the end of quarantine, waiting for the arrival of Spring, waiting to be reunited with friends and co-workers, maybe even waiting for answers. Through this new series, "While We Wait," we will dig into the ancient letter from Paul to the Philippians. Paul, under a lockdown of his own, writes some of his most memorable and profound statements to his dear friends in Philippi. What he says might be just the words we need to hear through this challenging time.
The Resurrection of Jesus changes everything. So, if that's true, then why do our lives often look so much like everyone else's? Tough questions demand truthful answers. Maybe this Easter can be the start of something new for all of us.
At the beginning of this series, Jesus "resolutely set out for Jerusalem." Now he arrives in the Holy City, and our Holy Week begins. Through this longer passage, Luke records several events and teaching that help frame the last week of Jesus' life in a unique and powerful way.
On his way to Jerusalem, Jesus shares a surprising parable that gives us direction and motivation during this trying time. Our community will thrive if we can put His words into practice.
As Jesus is making his way to Jerusalem, he makes a stop at a friend's house. An unplanned moment before dinner provides us an incredibly relevant teaching, especially during these days of cancelled events, quarantines, working from home and online school.
"As the time approached for Him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem." Luke 9:51. As Jesus travels this road toward crucifixion, His teachings become focused on the imminent task at hand. The road He travels is the road we are invited to walk on as well, as we follow Him every day.
The beauty of our life being incorporated into the life of Christ as a people chosen, adopted, loved, forgiven, redeemed is that we get to align our hearts with God’s heart and participate with him in what he is doing in our world.
When we adibe (remain) with God we are reciprocating exactly the way God loves (and remains with) us. What does it mean for us to abide with God? How can we do this in a daily way?
One of the results of staying connected to the Vine is that we bear fruit in the proper season.
Jesus describes our relationship with God with a powerful metaphor: He is the vine and we are the branches. What does that mean? How does it work? How come we often feel disconnected from God? How can we deepen our connection to the all-important source of life? Before we begin the Lent Season we will spend a few weeks in John 15:1-17.
As we wrap up this series, we'll draw wisdom and inspiration from the author of Hebrews who tells us how to persevere in spite of failure, struggle, and difficulty.
We've been talking about the "mark" as union with God. But we sometimes find it easy to lose our way and start heading in the wrong direction. How does this happen? How do we get back on track?
Dealing with the same routine day after day and stuck in a bit of a rut? What are some ways God meets us in the day-to-day? What is our response?
What if our understanding of sin is one of the things that keeps us stuck in old patterns and repeated failure?
What happens when we miss the mark? How do we deal with, process, survive, and come back from failure? What does the Bible say about all of this? As we begin 2020, let's take a close look at who we want to become and what gets in the way.
God uses difficult trials to grow our faith in powerful ways. As we begin the year, let's reframe our painful experiences and ask God to teach us how to learn from our trials and disappointments.
This Christmas Eve we will read through the most familiar words from the Christmas story and find a fresh perspective about making room for Jesus in our lives.
Luke begins the story of Jesus with the one who is called to, "prepare a way for the Lord." The first chapter of Luke will help us prepare room in our hearts for Jesus this Christmas.
Our lives are full and cluttered. We often don't have time for the all that we want to accomplish, but we sure try to make it all fit. Maybe we need to rethink our approach. The Advent season gives us opportunity to make room in our lives for Jesus, to prepare for His arrival. What would our lives look like if we made space for the King of Kings? How can we prepare Him room?
We often make the common mistake of connecting gratitude with our circumstances - when good things happen we are thankful. But the scriptures give us a different understanding of gratitude that is not dependent on what happens to us. Incredible shifts in perspective occur when we practice the habit of giving thanks.
Luke records an interesting event in his story of Jesus' life: a group of people experience healing from an awful disease. May God give us grateful hearts as we reflect on this passage of scripture.
When we gather together as a church, we gather as a family. God uses the family analogy often thoughout scripture to help us understand our responsibility to each other. Today we will focus on the needs of those throughout the world who feel as though they have no family at all.
Abraham and Sarah get a big promise from God, but then must endure a long, long wait. That leads to efforts, like many of ours, to grab control and try to make things happen. Thankfully, God does with them what he'll do with us: he disrupts their control and gives surprises of life-giving love.
One of the most famous passages of scripture helps us understand the very nature of love and maturity as we follow Jesus every day.
One of the most famous passages of scripture helps us understand the very nature of love and maturity as we follow Jesus every day.
Using one of the most meaningful correlations in scripture the Apostle Paul explains that the Church is actually the Body of Christ. How does this practically work? Why is this important? What happens if I try to live independent from this truth?
Paul pulls a page from the history of Israel and makes a startling statement: their time wandering in the wilderness happened so that we could learn from their experiences. So, we will honor that truth and welcome the warnings intended for us.
Paul pulls a page from the history of Israel and makes a startling statement: their time wandering in the wilderness happened so that we could learn from their experiences. So, we will honor that truth and welcome the warnings intended for us.
This week we will tackle 5 chapters of Paul's letter to the Corinthian church. I know, it seems like a lot of ground to cover! But, this section of the letter gives us a great opportunity to talk about HOW to read the Bible thoughtfully and carefully.
Before we keep moving forward in 1 Corinthians we'll take a quick detour to another letter that Paul wrote where he describes how having the "Mind of Christ" transforms our relationships.
In these few verses the Apostle Paul gives us a road map for dealing with our egos and our insecurities.
Paul describes how upside down life can be for followers of Jesus: wisdom can seem like foolishness and God's power is best displayed in feebleness and trembling.
Paul begins this letter by describing one of the key problems plaguing the church in Corinth — people have misplaced loyalties that create division and competition. The same thing, along with the same disastrous results, happens in our churches today.
Wherever you find people and relationships, you’re also likely to find a mess: selfishness, hurt feelings, egos fighting for starring roles, and so much more. Of course, this problem isn’t really new, and it’s also no surprise that the mess is part of church life: Jesus’ followers are far from perfect. The Apostle Paul wrote a couple of letters to believers in a bustling city who were living examples of human strife and chaos. Over the next several weeks, we’ll study 1 and 2 Corinthians and consider how we can apply Paul’s words to our own lives and church.