Growing Together
How do we grow up?
Step into opportunities where we will be stretched. We are, by nature, dedicated to the preservation of our comfort. Our growth will remain stunted if we follow this instinct. Let’s commit ourselves to tasks that are bigger than us. God can show us His power when we step out in faith. When was the last time we stepped out of our comfort zone?
What We Need to Succeed
What direction is your life headed? Does the overall purpose you are pursuing have eternity’s values in view? If it does not, I urge you to change your direction. If it does, rely on God’s power and give yourself diligently to it.
The King’s Table
God is not out to “get” something from us. He does not need anyone or anything. He is whole and complete as He is. He receives great satisfaction in giving. His kindness is so abundant and overflowing that He looks for an outlet to bless. He has sent His Son to seek us out.
Both/And Healthy Emotions and Faith
Sometimes when we are working through emotional challenges it feels like there is a cloud hanging over our heads. We can feel stuck and frustrated. What do we do with this?
Order of Service
So what is it going to be? Which are we, lover or prostitute? There are no prostitutes in heaven, or in the Kingdom of God for that matter, but there are plenty of former prostitutes in both places. Take it from a recovering prostitute when I say there is no substitute for unconditional, intimate relationship with God. And I mean there is no palatable substitute available to us (take another look at Matthew 7:21-23 sometime). We must choose.
Faith That Changes Everything
When we share the Good News, there will be miracles. We can trust the Lord for the miraculous.
People don’t want just facts and information they want the reality of a changed life.
Theme: God wants to use us to perform miracles.
Text: John 14:12-14
Here’s a thought: God wants us to be witnesses, not to try and witness.
A Better Approach to Life
What did you do this last week to build your faith and renew your focus? Are you reading your Bible? Are you memorizing Scripture verses? Are you asking the Holy Spirit to counsel you and help you apply His Word? Receive the Heavenly Father’s promises for provision and refuse to let the birds of worry nest in your hair.
You are Wrong!
Power is necessary so that we can be witnesses. Acts 1:8 (ESV) 'But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.' Holy Spirit empowers us to bear witness, to be a witness in this world.
There are two C’s in Church
Jesus builds His church on this foundation of faith with building blocks that include: Cause (Matthew 28:16-20) and Community (Acts 2:42-47). We are on a mission to make disciples, to rescue those the enemy has captured, and to grow as a community of believers who support one another through life's challenges.
God Cannot Be Mocked
'We reap what we sow.' Explore the teachings of Galatians 6:6-10, the law of cause and effect, and the choices between sowing to the sinful nature or God's Holy Spirit.
Don’t Get Mad; Get More Than Even!
In a cruel world, we are called to Take It, Give It, and Bank It. The power of God’s love makes for a better world and a better hereafter.
Life Has Its Ups and Downs
Adversity is not a setback but a stepping stone to spiritual growth, as seen in the story of Abraham Lincoln and the disciples' journey with Jesus in Matthew 17
The God of Increase
Discover the timeless wisdom of growth and faith in the parable from Matthew 25:13-30. Just as in life, in faith, 'If it isn't growing, it's probably dead.
A Call to Fruitfulness
In John 15:15-16, Jesus declares that He chose us not just to believe but to bear lasting fruit. Explore the profound mission of the church in making disciples and spreading love through the Gospel.
Sowing in Peace
This Sunday message emphasizes how we can sow seeds of peace during times of anxiety, drawing from James 3:13-18, Judges 6:11-24, and John 14:25-27. By understanding biblical Shalom as a holistic reconciliation, the message explores the Lord's role in our peaceful relationships. It highlights Jesus as the Prince of Peace and guides listeners on cultivating inner peace to spread harmony externally.
New Wine and Wineskins
As we prepare to be filled with the Holy Spirit, like new wine in fresh wineskins, we encounter a transformative journey. This message unveils the steps: making ourselves available, embracing change, taking bold faith steps, and putting others first. Just as Jesus turned water into wine, our lives can be infused with the Spirit's joy, empowerment, and the ability to bless others.
Heaven's Champions
Embrace the winning strategies outlined by Jesus in Luke 11:14-28. Just as the third boy in the snow race won by focusing on the goal ahead, believers can triumph by aligning themselves with the right team. Offensive tactics include unity, recognizing the source of power, and acknowledging Jesus as the ultimate strength. Defending against hypocrisy and maintaining purity are key components of successful Christian living. Learn from historical examples and personal anecdotes, and apply these principles to become a spiritual champion.
The Last Word
Jesus will announce where we have chosen to spend eternity. The Lord will have the last word on my eternal destiny. We can listen in on the last words of dying men in Luke 23:32-43….