Non-Series Messages
Living out the gospel in our daily life is something that has the power to revolutionize the people around us. In Acts 16 we read a story of an "earth shaking" moment through which God's power flipped a man's heart from causing wounds to cleaning wounds. (Acts 16:16-40, Hab 1:5)
At the dinner with Jesus, Martha was concerned with her performance, while Mary was concentrating on her position at His feet. Often in our "Christianity," we measure our acts and service as our devotion to God, instead of the sacred time we spend with Him. (Hebrews 4, 2 Chronicles 16, Isaiah 26, Matthew 11, John 12, Luke 10)
As the torch was being passed from Elijah to Elisha we see him exemplify the principle of making an audacious request and believing that God can do even more than we could ever ask for. What is it that we are asking God for? (2 Kings 2:5-11, Eph 3:20-21, Romans 8:11) (We were grateful to welcome the Lead Pastor of Summit Church, Todd Theissen as our guest speaker this morning.)
What does David the mighty warrior facing the giant Ishbi-benob, the little Army Ant, and Paul's persecution in Macedonia have in common? We explore these 3 stories and draw principles of God's power and answered prayer in the midst of our community. When our Brother or Sister is weak and exhausted, we stand and fight their giants. (2 Samuel 21:15-17, 2 Corinthians 7:5-7, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
With everyone's thoughts on a new year and new beginning, we examine the Nazirite Vow in the Old Testament. This vow was for people who were desperate and who were completely committed. This wasn't a new year's resolution with the focus on oneself, but a deeply seeded passionate declaration of obedience to God. Standing at the edge of commitment and obedience, we shouldn't be afraid to jump, but afraid to retreat. (Judges 13:2-5, Judges 15:12-17, Numbers 6:1-21)
The birth of Jesus was a history splitting, monumental, earth shaking moment. The gift of God's Son to us is unlike any gift we have ever received. Do we take this gift for granted? This gift was an exchange, Jesus brought us life, love, hope, grace, peace, and salvation, and in return, He takes on our sin. This is an exchange, a gift, unlike any other. (Luke 1 & 2)
This morning was a special morning in the young life of our church. We heard specific stories from the people of our congregation, stories of God's power, love, and faithfulness. Stories of what God has done and is doing are such a major part of who we are as a church. By looking back and remembering how we were all stirred to be a part of this movement, we can look forward with an eager anticipation.
We read of Jesus saying from a very early age, "I must be about my Father's business." Looking into our own lives, we ask ourselves the question; "What is our I must?" (Luke 2, John 9)
For those who are weary, hungry, and thirsty; we reflect on Psalm 23 and embrace the restoration that The Good Shepherd brings to our soul. (Psalm 23)
