Thankful for the Past – October 30, 2022

“Thankful for the Past”2 Thessalonians 1:1-12We begin a short series on 2 Thessalonians, where Paul’s message to the church in Thessalonica speaks to its past, present, and future. Paul’s thankfulness for the church’s faithfulness is paired with a promise of punishment for those who afflict them. Pastor Tim provides the context for this letter and…

Humbled Before God – October 23, 2022

“Humbled Before God”Text: Luke 18:9-14Today, we study the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee thanks God for not behaving as others in society (such as the tax collector); tax collector is humble and repents of their sins before God. Jesus says that the tax collector is the one who leaves the…

Questions for God – October 16, 2022

“Questions for God”Text: Habakkuk 1:1-3, 2:1-4In a time of uncertainty for the people of God, the prophet Habakkuk asks God bold questions about what appears to be God’s nonresponse to his prayers and the wrongdoing in the world. And yet, Habakkuk does not passively wait for God’s response; instead, he actively looks for what God…

Stories That Shape Us: Until the End! – October 9, 2022

“Stories That Shape Us: Until the End!”Text: Revelation 22We end our “Stories That Shape Us” series by looking at the last chapter of the Bible, Revelation 22. Over time, Revelation has gained a reputation as being a “scary” book or one that is supposed to provoke fear, however its original purpose was to provide hope…

Stories That Shape Us: 30 Pieces of Silver – October 2, 2022

“Stories That Shape Us: 30 Pieces of Silver”Text: Zechariah 11We continue our “Stories That Shape Us” series, looking at Old Testament passages that shape or are recalled in New Testament. This week’s passage from Zechariah is one that would have familiar in the time of Jesus. Zechariah’s rejection of the thirty silver shekel payment given…

Stories That Shape Us: The Abomination – September 18, 2022

Stories That Shape Us: The Abomination – September 18, 2022Text: Daniel 11:31-12:13It is often said that history is “written by the victors.” However, this week we review a passage from the book of Daniel that comes from the perspective of those who have been conquered. Despite descriptions of the desolation of the Temple and battles…