Things are not right in the world and in us. The Bible reveals the cause of this reality to be sin and the remedy to be faith in Jesus as Lord. This remedy is good news and is difficult for us to accept. In this second message from Paul’s letter to the Galatians we discover that, though hard to believe, the gospel in a word is Jesus.
Sermons by Dean Wertz (Page 23)
How can we begin and cultivate a life with God? Today we begin a series through Paul’s letter to the Galatians because this letter was penned by a man who grappled with this question, sent by a community that wrestled with this question, received by churches that were uncertain how to answer this question and now, it is given to us who must be clear and resolute in answering this ultimate question, “How can we begin and cultivate a life with God?”
Jesus resurrection is a historic reality and so much more. After rising He ascended and sent the Holy Spirit. So, today and every day is an opportunity to enter the story of Resurrection by living in the presence and power of the Living Jesus through the indwelling of His Holy Spirit.
Has God ever worked differently than you expected? Expectations were high in the the crowd, Jewish leadership, Roman officials and Jesus’ disciples on Palm Sunday. Yet, it was on this day that Jesus revealed that He is King. A Lord different than expected and better than imagined.
In Bethany Martha serves Jesus, Lazarus eats with Jesus, Mary anoints Jesus, Judas critiques Mary and John writes to tell it all. Why would Jesus take time to be with such a complicated group on His way into Jerusalem’s Hosannas, hate, trial and crucifixion? Maybe this story is more than a positive example of extravagant worship in the presence of greed. Maybe we all have something to learn about the guest and His love in that home and ours.
Today’s message of hope comes in two courses. From the parable of the Prodigal Son we are reminded of God’s desire and plan for us to live with Him. The second course, delivered after communion, presents the vision for our church to offer more hope in Jesus’ name to more people in Denver and beyond. Trigger warning: This second phase includes a challenge to the Hope family to give sacrificially beyond our ongoing offerings toward our 2-month Expand Hope campaign. May God bless you as you are encouraged to both seize and extend the hope of Christ to others.
Today is the first Sunday of Lent, a 40 day journey with Christ and His Church toward Holy Week. We begin with the famous conflict in the wilderness between Jesus and Satan. Why did Satan try to tempt Jesus? How did Jesus prevail? Behold the secret of the Son of God to become more like Him and love Him more!
Since God loves all nations, He summons us to love our neighbors across the street and around the world.
If God is loving why does the Bible also warn of His wrath and judgment? How can these two portrayals of God co-exist? The response of Nineveh’s king to Jonah’s message of judgment followed by God’s response to the king provides a portrayal of grace, the relationship between and reason for God’s love and justice.
Did you know that God has a vision for the world, and He wants you to be a part of it? He is making it known that Jesus is Lord of all. This good news is going to our neighbors, city, nation and eventually, to very ethnic group in the world. Why did God “hurl a great storm” at, and then “appoint a great fish” for Jonah? Maybe He really is committed to having His people see, savor AND share His glory across the street and around the world!