Divine Encounters: Jacob’s Ladder – June 21, 2015

Divine Encounters: Jacob’s Ladder Text: Genesis 28:10-22 Recognizing that Jacob did nothing deserving of this divine encounter, we would do well to remember that this is not “Jacob’s Ladder,” but “God’s Ladder.” This story reminds us that God’s grace reaches out to us at our lowest point, inviting us to respond in worship and devotion.

Divine Encounters: Out On a Limb – June 7, 2015

Divine Encounters: “Out On a Limb” Text: Luke 19:1-10 When we look deeper at the familiar story of Zacchaeus, we realize that this is not just the story of a short man who was unable to see. This is the story of a man who was ostracized from his community and hiding from the crowds,…

The New Creation – May 24, 2015

“The New Creation” Text: Acts 2:1-4, 37-41 Creation. Baptism. Pentecost. These events combine to help us understand that God is already at work breathing life into the New Creation. What does it mean to be part of this covenant community? What does it mean to participate with God in the redemption of all things? What…

This is How We Know – May 17, 2015

“This is How We Know” Text: I John 5:6-13 “How do we know the truth about God? Which testimonies about God are reliable and trustworthy? As we conclude our journey through First John, we consider the importance of the doctrine of the incarnation, and understanding how Jesus perfectly reveals the God of Abraham, Isaac, and…

People of Faith – May 10, 2015

“People of Faith” Text: I John 5:1-5 Love. Faith. Obedience. These three elements are inseparably intertwined, as we live into our calling as subjects in God’s kingdom. Pastor Jon explores the way that these three cords are woven together – considering what it means to live holy, faithful, and obedient lives in response to God’s…

No Fear – May 3, 2015

No Fear Text: I John 4:7-21 Proceeding from the understanding that love is the essential core attribute of God’s nature, Pastor Jon explores what it means to be people of love. How is our moral development shaped by the understanding that perfect love drives out fear? Do our evangelistic methods reflect this message? Lastly, how…

No Empty Words – April 26, 2015

“No Empty Words” Text: I John 3:16-24 How do we know that Jesus loves us? He laid down his life for us. Therefore it follows that we demonstrate our love for the world by laying down our lives. Pastor Jon explores the tension of trying to live out these high expectations and holy ideals in…

Misunderstood – April 19, 2015

Misunderstood I John 3:1-7 As Christians, we are bound to be misunderstood like Christ was misunderstood. We can only confidently live the misunderstood life if our identity is deeply rooted in the life of Christ and the hope of being like Christ. As people who are bound to be misunderstood, we should take great care…

Walking in the Light – April 12, 2015

“Walking in the Light” Text: I John 1:1-2:2 The letter of First John calls us to live lives of integrity, walking in the light, and confessing the moments when we fail to do so. Pastor Jon explores this tension, offering a call to live each moment of each day, walking in the light and proclaiming…