Religious liberty is a gift we enjoy in most countries around the world. So, why did Jesus say that His followers should expect to be persecuted for His name? What did He mean and how is this relevant for us who can worship and follow Jesus freely in the 21st century? In this second message from the life and death of Abel, we discover a reality about opposition that all who walk with God must know, remember and embrace as we seek to live and die in union with God.
Sermons by Dean Wertz (Page 13)
Some lives are brief. Too brief. Way too brief. It was this way for Abel. Though his life was cut short, he lived carefree with God and as an inspiration to all who desire to walk moment by moment in the presence of God.
Does God prefer that we walk with Him or work for Him? A fuller look at Enoch’s life points us toward God’s thoughts on this all important question.
What does God expect of me in 2021? Am I doing enough to please Him? Isn’t there something else I could do to make my life matter for God glory and the good of the world? In this ancient genealogy we discover that maybe doing one thing is enough. “Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.” Maybe walking with God is enough.
Have you ever used poor judgement and then found yourself in trouble? If so, you can probably relate with Adam and Eve who hid in fear after eating forbidden fruit. In God’s response to our ancestors, we discover good news! God loves you and comes not to shame you but to walk again alongside of you!
Much is bruised in our world and lives. International conflict, political division, disease, relational tension and anxiety. In this 2nd week of Advent, we receive God’s desperately needed vision for peace through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.
This Sunday we conclude our series on the Holy Spirit by observing how Stephen walked with God’s Spirit until his final breath. We will then enter Thanksgiving week by having time in the service to express our gratitude to God.
If you’ve been distracted lately from your created purpose – to walk with God in all of life – you are not alone! Join us this Sunday to worship God as we re-clarify this beautiful singular focus in a way that will restore life in many ways including an expanded capacity for faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
With so much uncertainty around us, wouldn’t it be nice to experience more of God’s love, joy and peace? These three qualities are the first of nine described by the Apostle Paul as Fruit of the Spirit. They are also realities Jesus experienced throughout His time with us on earth. This week, we discover how to receive and more fully experience these God-given virtues.
When the church gathers there should be joy, liveliness and space for spontaneous participation. Yet, not in a disorganized and chaotic way that makes our guests feel uncomfortable. As we deepen our lives with God’s Spirit and cultivate our spiritual gifts, this week we will discover how we can experience the mysterious ways of God’s Spirit when we gather while also honoring all who are present