https://my.truevi.com/watch/sD4cEKSC5bo2020-05-20T02:35:16.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/sD4cEKSC5bo/hqdefault.jpgChurch Reopening and Daily BreadThis video opens with a discussion of the church's phased return to in-person gatherings. In May, people are encouraged to gather in groups. In June, the church will encourage watch parties in homes. In July, campuses will reopen with reduced capacity, no kids or student ministries, and family worship, while online services will continue. In August, kids programming will restart, and services will return to a more normal scenario. This plan will be available on the church's website by the weekend. The speaker then reflects on the challenges of preaching to a camera, noting the difficulty of not receiving cues from a live audience. He shares an illustration he failed to connect in a previous sermon, which was meant to convey that "we only know people as well as we invest in the relationship," referencing Jesus' statement "my sheep hear my voice." He also mentions a time he misstated the definition of "prophetic," confusing "foretelling" with "foreseeing." The conversation shifts to bread-making, inspired by a friend named Bruce Wagner. The speaker describes making bread with three ingredients (water, bread flour, yeast, and a touch of salt) and its short shelf life due to a lack of preservatives, connecting it to the concept of "daily bread" and the verse "man cannot live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God." The church is giving away eight loaves of bread, and viewers can comment "bake that bread" to claim one. The speaker also discusses his daughter's wedding planning, which is proceeding despite current uncertainties, and mentions other church activities like community prayer, "Word with the Pastors," and interviews with global workers. The current sermon series, "I Am Who I Am," continues for a few more weeks.https://www.youtube.com/embed/sD4cEKSC5bo2183https://my.truevi.com/watch/LtaPGb1g4NE2020-06-03T02:37:04.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/LtaPGb1g4NE/hqdefault.jpgTrusting God Amidst National TurmoilThis teaching opens with a discussion of the current national mood, describing feelings of sadness, grief, and anger over recent events, particularly the killing of a black man with a knee to his neck. The speaker expresses a desire to understand the pain of people of color, acknowledging that as a white man, he cannot fully grasp their experiences. He references Psalm 62, "Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us," as a source of comfort and guidance during this time. The speaker also mentions First Corinthians 13, noting that the love described there is only found in the person of Jesus Christ and the gospel. He emphasizes that the gospel and forgiveness are the only answers for healing, contrasting this with worldly solutions that lead to continued brokenness. The conversation then shifts to an announcement about a new campus location. The speaker introduces Reverend Timothy Bubar, who shares that the church has acquired keys to a new building in the Bearden area, a former theater. This building was first considered 20 months prior but was deemed unsuitable. After meeting in Pond Gap Elementary School, a new opportunity arose for the renovated theater, which is now set up for a church. The speaker highlights the timing of this acquisition, especially given the uncertainty of meeting in a school during the COVID-19 era. The new location, referred to as the Homburg Theater, is seen as an opportunity for greater community outreach and impact throughout the week, beyond just Sunday services. The speaker notes that serving together builds community and that this move represents a "clear divine orchestration." The discussion concludes with an update on the church's plans to return to campuses with a phased approach, with a projected date in early July, and the announcement of a new sermon series called "Summer Stories" from the book of John.https://www.youtube.com/embed/LtaPGb1g4NE2232https://my.truevi.com/watch/K84MTB6TMTE2020-09-16T05:44:56.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/K84MTB6TMTE/hqdefault.jpgConnected to Jesus and Each OtherThis discussion focuses on the importance of being connected to Jesus and to each other, especially in the current national climate. The speakers explain that their current sermon series in John's Gospel emphasizes this connection, and they believe God has pressed this message upon them as a church. They highlight that their citizenship is in heaven, not solely in any earthly country, and that the gospel should be their primary focus, not political issues. The conversation addresses a question about whether the church is becoming "seeker-friendly" by focusing so much on the gospel. The speaker clarifies that the gospel is not just a starting point but the core of Christian life, encompassing both salvation and transformation. They discuss the ongoing process of clarifying the church's values, including the gospel's role in both being born anew and joining God's mission in the world. Logistically, the speakers detail how the church is adapting to current realities, including planning for Christmas services, reintroducing children's ministries with family worship experiences, and adjusting service times at the Harrison Lane campus to accommodate growing attendance while maintaining social distancing. They also share an update on the church's "Love Gives" initiative, which raised $45,000 for seven Latin American partners, and express gratitude for the congregation's continued financial support despite a 7% decrease in giving.https://www.youtube.com/embed/K84MTB6TMTE2360https://my.truevi.com/watch/YjGGJHeWQ1c2020-10-21T05:36:43.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/YjGGJHeWQ1c/hqdefault.jpgTwo Rivers Church Updates and PlansThis discussion covers several updates and plans for Two Rivers Church. The church is currently in a four-week season of prayer, with this week's focus being unity, based on Ephesians 4:1-6. The speakers encourage praying scripture back to God as a way to engage with this theme. Looking ahead, the teaching team is planning sermon series through the end of 2020 and into 2021, including a Christmas series and a focus on 21 days of prayer in January, leading up to a Quiet Waters event on January 21st and 22nd. They are currently teaching through John, specifically John 16, where Jesus uses the illustration of childbirth to explain the pain of his departure and the joy of his return. For Christmas Eve, the church plans to hold multiple services on December 24th across three campuses, featuring live teaching and worship at each. Reservations will be required for these services to manage capacity and spacing. The discussion also touches on the availability of Stephen Ministers for support and resources for children's anxiety, as well as efforts to expand children's ministries as volunteer numbers allow.https://www.youtube.com/embed/YjGGJHeWQ1c2230https://my.truevi.com/watch/g3ZEs33G99k2020-11-04T06:32:24.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/g3ZEs33G99k/hqdefault.jpgThe Church's Call to Prayer: Philippians 2 & John 17This teaching focuses on the church's call to prayer, particularly during a time of political tension. The speaker references a multi-week prayer initiative with themes of unity, identity, and humility. The current week's focus is humility, drawing on Philippians chapter 2, beginning in verse 1. The passage describes Christ's humility, emptying himself and taking the form of a servant, becoming obedient to death on a cross. The speaker emphasizes that the church's mission, rooted in John's Gospel, is to love one another, especially those who are different or opposed. He discusses the challenge of maintaining unity within the church when Christians attack other Christians, and the stress caused by political divisions. He states that the church's stance is not to be politically active, but to be unified, have an identity in Christ, and live in humility, which he acknowledges can be offensive to some who desire more political commentary. The discussion also covers the church's 24/7 prayer initiative for the election week, which will continue with new focuses. The speaker notes that the world is broken by sin and that lost people act like lost people, which should not surprise Christians. He introduces a new sermon series for November titled "Living Safe," which will begin in John chapter 17, focusing on Jesus's high priestly prayer to the Father. He highlights the first five verses of John 17, noting that this is the Lord's prayer, not the "Our Father" prayer, which is more of a model prayer. The speaker also provides updates on the reintroduction of children's ministries across different campuses, with some requiring RSVPs.https://www.youtube.com/embed/g3ZEs33G99k2009https://my.truevi.com/watch/8_Jibhtk0d82020-11-08T14:00:11.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/8_Jibhtk0d8/hqdefault.jpgLiving Safe in Jesus Christ: John 17This teaching explores the concept of "living safe" in a world that often feels unsafe, drawing from John chapter 17. The speaker notes that many seek safety in various ways, but the pandemic has challenged the idea of any truly safe place. He argues that true safety is found only in the person of Jesus Christ and in knowing Him. The sermon focuses on John 17:1-5, where Jesus prays to the Father. The speaker highlights that Jesus's prayer reveals His heart. He emphasizes that safety comes from knowing Jesus's authority, as Jesus states, "the hour has come" and that the Father has given Him "authority over all flesh to give eternal life to all whom you've given him." This authority is further supported by references to John chapter 10 and John chapter 5, where Jesus speaks of laying down His life and having authority to take it up again, and John chapter 1, which describes Jesus as the Word who created all things. Colossians chapter 1 verse 16 is also cited, stating that "by him all things were created." The speaker also asserts that safety is found in knowing "the only true God," as Jesus prays in John 17:3, "this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you've sent." This "knowing" is described as an intimate, experiential relationship that continues throughout eternity, not just a mental assent. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that Jesus's prayer, as seen in John 17:4-5, is ultimately about the glory of God, which was demonstrated on the cross. The speaker encourages listeners to preach the gospel to themselves daily and to find safety in knowing Christ.https://www.youtube.com/embed/8_Jibhtk0d83547https://my.truevi.com/watch/RLBWIyt8gug2021-02-08T04:59:40.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/RLBWIyt8gug/hqdefault.jpgJesus' Arrest: In Control When Life Feels Out of ControlThis teaching explores John 18:1-11, focusing on Jesus' arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. The speaker uses the Star Wars trilogy, specifically *The Empire Strikes Back*, as an analogy for moments when life feels out of control. He emphasizes that while we desire to be the hero of our own story, scripture shows we are reliant on another hero. The core principle is that followers of Jesus can be confident in Him even when their world is spinning out of control. The sermon highlights that Jesus knows all that will happen because He is God, connecting this to the sovereignty of God. When Jesus says "I am he" in John 18:5-6, the soldiers fall to the ground, which the speaker interprets as an encounter with the power of God, linking it to the covenant name of God, Yahweh, from the Old Testament. He references John 8:57-58 where Jesus also uses "I am" in relation to Abraham, causing the Jewish leaders to pick up stones. The speaker asserts that Jesus is in control of the seemingly out-of-control situation, not a victim. He refers to Jesus' prayer in John 17:12, where Jesus states He has lost none of those given to Him except the son of destruction, fulfilling scripture. Peter's action of cutting off Malchus's ear is presented as Jesus directing the action, telling Peter to put his sword away and asking if He should not drink the cup the Father has given Him. The teaching concludes by encouraging listeners to identify what feels out of control in their lives and to bring truth to their world by seeing that Jesus is with them.https://www.youtube.com/embed/RLBWIyt8gug3675https://my.truevi.com/watch/uinVZHE5N2Q2021-02-15T03:47:35.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/uinVZHE5N2Q/hqdefault.jpgThe Finale: Jesus' Arrest and the Passover LambThis message begins a series called "The Finale," walking through John's Gospel and culminating on Easter weekend. The scene is Passover, which has been ongoing since John chapter 11, into chapter 12, and chapter 13. The speaker explains that for the children of Israel, the most important event in their history was the Exodus, the Passover, and God repeatedly reminded them, "Am I not the God who led you out of Egypt?" The expectation for the children of Israel was that the Messiah would come during Passover, not just any day. Passover was a time of looking back to remember what God had done, in order to see what God was doing, looking back to look forward. The principle for this weekend is that God is at work in ways we may not comprehend, referred to as the Deuteronomy 29:29 principle. Deuteronomy 29:29 states, "The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law." The message then picks up in John chapter 18, verse 12, where Jesus is arrested and led to Annas, the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. Caiaphas had advised the Jews in John chapter 11 that it would be expedient for one man to die for the people. The speaker explains that Annas was the high priest from AD 6 until AD 15, removed by the Roman governor, but still recognized by the Jews as the high priest according to Mosaic law, even though Caiaphas held the office. The high priest questions Jesus about his disciples and teaching in John chapter 18, verse 19. Jesus responds that he has spoken openly in synagogues and the temple, saying nothing in secret. An officer strikes Jesus, and Jesus asks why he is struck if he spoke correctly. Annas then sends Jesus to Caiaphas. The speaker makes three observations about this pre-trial: first, the Jews attempted to rig the system, breaking Jewish law and tradition by not asking witnesses and striking Jesus. Second, Jesus drives the action while maintaining his innocence, which is https://www.youtube.com/embed/uinVZHE5N2Q4779https://my.truevi.com/watch/b02AVdNFv9E2021-02-22T03:48:36.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/b02AVdNFv9E/hqdefault.jpgFailure and Forgiveness: Peter's DenialThis service opens with worship music, including songs like "We Praise You" and "Raise a Hallelujah," drawing on Psalm 150, which encourages everything that has breath to praise the Lord. The worship leader emphasizes praising God whether on a mountaintop or in a valley. The sermon, delivered by Dave, focuses on failure, using Peter's denial of Jesus in John chapter 18 as a central example. Dave shares personal anecdotes about his own failures, including falling asleep during a college final and blowing opportunities to share the gospel. He highlights that the Bible includes stories of people who fail, not just those who always get it right. The message emphasizes that Jesus is at work in our failed moments, seeing past them to a greater vision for our lives, just as he saw beyond Peter's denial to his recommissioning in John chapter 21. Dave contrasts Jesus's seven "I am" statements in the Book of John with Peter's repeated "I am not" in John chapter 18. He explains that when we fail, we often adopt an "I am not" mentality, feeling unworthy. However, Jesus, "The Great I Am," steps in to replace our "I am not" with His righteousness and vision. The sermon concludes with next steps: asking the Holy Spirit to reveal a moment of failure to move beyond, and asking who needs grace and forgiveness, encouraging scripture reading in John 18 and 19 to reflect on the cost of Jesus's forgiveness.https://www.youtube.com/embed/b02AVdNFv9E4571https://my.truevi.com/watch/He6AGWe18eg2021-03-01T05:18:30.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/He6AGWe18eg/hqdefault.jpgJesus Is In Control: John 18-19This teaching focuses on the idea that Jesus is in control, even in seemingly chaotic circumstances. The speaker references John chapters 18 and 19, specifically Jesus's interactions with Pilate, to illustrate how Jesus maintained control of the conversation, the circumstances, and his own "coronation." The speaker highlights Jesus's responses to Pilate's questions, such as "Are you the king of the Jews?" and Jesus's statement in John 18:36, "My kingdom is not of this world." He also points to John 18:32, which states that events unfolded "to fulfill the word that Jesus had spoken to show what kind of death he was going to die." The speaker notes that Pilate's declaration, "Behold the man," and "Behold your king," carried double meanings, unknowingly fulfilling messianic prophecy from Zechariah chapter 6. The sermon encourages listeners to live as if Jesus is in control, even when personal or global events feel out of control. It suggests applying spiritual disciplines like engaging with the Word, prayer, and community to surrender areas of life to God's reign and rule, finding peace in that surrender. The speaker references Jesus's words in John chapter 10, "No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own accord."https://www.youtube.com/embed/He6AGWe18eg4789https://my.truevi.com/watch/-jMulesFrgs2021-03-08T03:46:22.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/-jMulesFrgs/hqdefault.jpgThe Best Life: Life With JesusThis message explores the concept of "the best life" as presented in John's Gospel, which the speaker summarizes as being about "life." The speaker notes that a simple Google search for "how to live your best life" yields good suggestions, but they are missing "with Jesus." The best life is described as an abundant life, a life to the full, as mentioned in John 10:10. The cross is presented as the entry point to this best life, where one finds life in death, exchanging a dead life for a new life in Jesus. The sermon emphasizes that the cross was always God's plan, not an afterthought. This is illustrated by the Passover tradition where blood was placed on the sides and top of the door, forming a cross shape. Jesus is identified as the final Passover lamb, as John the Baptist called him "the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." Jesus's declaration "it is finished" (John 19:30) signifies that God's redemption plan is complete and sin has been paid for. The application for living the best life is drawn from the book of Colossians. The speaker encourages reading Colossians to understand what a new life in Christ looks like, specifically referencing Colossians 2:6-7 about being rooted, built up, and established in faith, abounding in thanksgiving. The best life is characterized as life *with* Jesus, not just *for* Jesus, involving an interactive relationship. It is also a debt-free life, as sin's legal demands were canceled and nailed to the cross (Colossians 2:13-14). The speaker clarifies that this means our sin was put on Jesus, not just a record of debt. Finally, the best life is described as chasing "forever things," setting minds on things above (Colossians 3:1-2), and living as a resurrected people today.https://www.youtube.com/embed/-jMulesFrgs4829https://my.truevi.com/watch/Is1vYJmYRuM2021-03-15T02:49:27.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Is1vYJmYRuM/hqdefault.jpgThe Finale: Jesus' Resurrection in John 20:1-18This sermon, part of the "Finale" series on John's Gospel, focuses on John 20:1-18 to explore the resurrection of Jesus. The speaker highlights John's detailed account to emphasize that Jesus is alive, and this fact creates a new reality for believers. He cautions against treating the resurrection as a mere cliché, comparing it to a POW learning their side won the war, signifying a complete change in circumstances. The speaker walks through Mary Magdalene's discovery of the empty tomb, her running to tell Peter and John, and their subsequent race to the tomb. He notes John's specific details about the linen cloths and face cloth, suggesting they served as evidence for John's belief that Jesus was alive, not merely that his body was stolen. The speaker emphasizes that John believed based on evidence, even though he and Peter "did not understand the scripture that he must rise from the dead" at that point. The sermon then shifts to Mary Magdalene's personal experience, noting her weeping and her initial failure to recognize Jesus. Her recognition comes when Jesus calls her by name, making the resurrection a personal experience. Jesus' instruction to Mary, "Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father, but go to my brothers and say to them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God,'" is interpreted as a call not to cling to the past but to embrace the new reality and future that the resurrection brings. This new reality includes a new identity as "brothers" in God's family, new relationships, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The speaker concludes by encouraging listeners to reflect on evidence and experience of the risen Jesus, and to ask God what difference Jesus' aliveness should make in their lives.https://www.youtube.com/embed/Is1vYJmYRuM4789https://my.truevi.com/watch/HQGSP_eFFPE2021-03-22T04:26:17.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/HQGSP_eFFPE/hqdefault.jpgJesus Appears to Disciples: From Doubt to BeliefThis sermon explores the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus to his disciples, focusing on John chapter 20, starting in verse 19. The speaker highlights Jesus showing up in the disciples' locked room, offering peace, and then specifically addressing Thomas's doubt. He emphasizes that Jesus shows up in our world to call us to believe in him, leading to Thomas's declaration, "My Lord and my God." The speaker connects this to the "big idea" that Jesus wants us to have life, which is found in right relationship with God. He references John 20:31, stating that the book was written "so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name." This life is described as a life of peace, moving from "enmity with God to peace with God," as supported by Romans 5:1 and Romans 8:1. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to ask the Holy Spirit where Jesus has shown up in their lives and where they might be struggling to believe, referencing the man who said, "Jesus, I believe; help my unbelief." It also encourages reading Romans 8 to understand our new position as sons and daughters of God, emphasizing that God adopts us into His family.https://www.youtube.com/embed/HQGSP_eFFPE5054https://my.truevi.com/watch/mEnhUmUK4142021-03-29T03:00:33.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/mEnhUmUK414/hqdefault.jpgTrusting Jesus: The Finale of JohnThis teaching concludes a 19-month series on the Gospel of John, focusing on John 20:30-31. The speaker emphasizes that the life Jesus gives is based on trusting Him not only for eternity but also for today. He explains that John's purpose in writing his Gospel was so that people "may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name." The speaker defines biblical belief as "confidence, faith, trust," meaning to entrust oneself to an entity in complete confidence, not merely holding an opinion. The sermon then moves to John 21, describing Jesus' third post-resurrection appearance to His disciples by the Sea of Tiberias (also called the Sea of Galilee, Sea of Chinnereth, or Lake Gennesaret). The disciples, including Simon Peter, Thomas, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, had fished all night and caught nothing. Jesus, standing on the shore, asked if they had any fish, and when they said no, He instructed them to cast their net on the right side of the boat. They caught 153 large fish, and the net did not tear. Jesus then invited them to breakfast, serving fish and bread. The speaker makes three observations about trusting Jesus: first, trust is based on recognizing who Jesus is, which begins with recognizing one's need for a Savior and the Holy Spirit's guidance. Second, trust is responding to what Jesus says, as seen in the disciples' obedience to cast their net. He references John 2:5, where Jesus' mother tells servants to "do whatever he tells you to do." Third, trust results in joining Jesus in what He is doing today, which includes gospel expansion and an interactive, relational life with Him. The speaker shares a personal story about trusting God's faithfulness during difficult times, including the death of his father and his wife's cancer diagnosis, highlighting that God is trustworthy regardless of circumstances. He encourages listeners to reread John's Gospel, reflect on God's past faithfulness, and consider how God is asking them thttps://www.youtube.com/embed/mEnhUmUK4145104https://my.truevi.com/watch/qL7GsEcwtaQ2021-04-03T09:45:58.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/qL7GsEcwtaQ/hqdefault.jpgGood Friday: It Is FinishedThis Good Friday service reflects on the cost of Jesus' sacrifice, beginning with worship songs like "Lead Me to the Cross" and "How Deep the Father's Love for Us." The speaker then details Jesus' final hours, starting in the upper room as described in John 13:1, where Jesus knew his hour had come. This "hour" of glorification is traced through his agony in the garden, his betrayal, his trials before Caiaphas and Pilate, his scourging, and his crucifixion at Golgotha. The sermon emphasizes Jesus' control throughout these events, citing John 19:28-30 where Jesus declares "it is finished," and John 10:17-18, where Jesus states no one takes his life from him, but he lays it down of his own accord. The phrase "it is finished" signifies that Jesus perfectly accomplished everything the Father sent him to do, including teaching, healing, performing miracles, and enduring the cup of wrath. The message then shifts to the disciples' uncertainty during the Sabbath after Jesus' death, highlighting their unknowing wait for the resurrection. It connects Jesus' call to deny oneself and take up one's cross daily, as well as his teaching that the first shall be last and whoever exalts himself will be humbled (Matthew 23:12). The service concludes with communion, remembering Jesus' words from 1 Corinthians about the bread and cup representing his body and the new covenant in his blood, and a final song reflecting on God's grace for "broken vessels" and the freedom found in Christ.https://www.youtube.com/embed/qL7GsEcwtaQ4787https://my.truevi.com/watch/O-w3y_G551k2021-04-12T02:51:07.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/O-w3y_G551k/hqdefault.jpgThe New Normal: Jesus Is Alive (Acts 1:1-5)This sermon introduces a new series called "The New Normal," which explores life in light of Jesus's resurrection, as experienced by his disciples and as it applies to believers today. The speaker defines "new normal" as a change in life, whether positive or tragic, and connects it to the post-resurrection experience of Jesus's followers, who lived life without his physical presence but with his Spirit. This series will also address core values for Two Rivers Church, which were developed in 2019 and delayed by the pandemic. The speaker explains that core values are vital and timeless principles that define a culture, and for Two Rivers Church, these are gospel-centered, word-dependent, spirit-empowered, and relationally connected to Jesus and each other. He emphasizes that "the church" refers to people, not a building, and that the book of Acts, the only historical narrative in the New Testament, is the story of the launch of the church and the mission of God. Focusing on Acts 1:1-5, the speaker highlights that Luke, the author of Acts and the Gospel of Luke, wrote to Theophilus to assure him of the truth of what he believed about Jesus. The primary message from Acts 1:1-5 is that Jesus is alive, which means he is still active and at work. The speaker discusses how this truth transforms a believer's relationship with Jesus into one with a living person. He also notes that the book of Acts, which could be called "the acts of Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit working in the apostles," shows believers are part of something greater than themselves. The sermon concludes by defining "gospel-centered" as believing that Jesus gives new life and transforms lives through the Holy Spirit, and that the gospel is not just "Jesus saves" but also "Jesus transforms." He encourages listeners to take practical steps in following Jesus, such as reading Acts chapter 1 and asking how the good news shapes their story.https://www.youtube.com/embed/O-w3y_G551k5059https://my.truevi.com/watch/b42A3kKgjN02021-04-19T02:54:02.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/b42A3kKgjN0/hqdefault.jpgThe New Normal: Gospel-Centered Living (Acts 1)This sermon, part of a series called "The New Normal," focuses on what it means to be a gospel-centered follower of Jesus, emphasizing that the gospel is the center of a believer's new normal. The speaker defines core values for followers of Jesus as being gospel-centered, dependent, spirit-empowered, and relationally connected to Jesus and other believers. He introduces the book of Acts, specifically Acts chapter 1, as a historical and descriptive account of the early church, cautioning against interpreting it as prescriptive for all modern practices. The speaker highlights three characteristics of the first followers of Jesus from Acts 1: they were witnesses to the good news, actively waiting in prayer, and fully committed to the scriptures. He discusses Acts 1:8, where Jesus tells his disciples they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them and be his witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the end of the earth. The speaker explains that the good news, or gospel, involves both Jesus saving and transforming. He encourages sharing personal experiences of Jesus's work rather than solely defending Christian beliefs. The sermon also touches on the disciples' united and active waiting in prayer, as seen in Acts 1:12-14, and their commitment to the scriptures when replacing Judas, quoting from the Psalms. The speaker notes that the early followers, rooted in Jewish tradition, knew the Old Testament scriptures well. He concludes by encouraging listeners to reread Acts 1, asking God what to learn, and to open their eyes to see the gospel at work in their lives and the world, reminding them that Jesus saves and transforms. The sermon ends with communion, a physical reminder of Jesus's body and blood, symbolizing his sacrifice and the new covenant.https://www.youtube.com/embed/b42A3kKgjN05111https://my.truevi.com/watch/QQO7UZabhRo2021-04-26T02:52:37.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/QQO7UZabhRo/hqdefault.jpgThe New Normal: Spirit-Empowered LifeThis sermon continues a series in the book of Acts, focusing on the power of God and the spirit-empowered life. The speaker introduces four themes that mark the early church and their own church: gospel-centered, word-dependent, spirit-empowered, and relationally connected. He then delves into Acts chapter 2, describing the day of Pentecost as a "life-changing moment" where the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues. The speaker emphasizes that experiencing the Holy Spirit is a promise, referencing Acts chapter 1 where Jesus tells his disciples to "wait for the promise of the Father" and John chapter 15 where Jesus promises to send the Spirit of truth. He explains that the presence of God, once confined to a place, now resides in the church, both corporately and individually, a concept he connects to the tearing of the curtain in the temple when Jesus died. The miraculous entrance of the Holy Spirit, marked by a rushing wind and tongues of fire, is highlighted. The sermon further explores how the Holy Spirit demonstrates power in believers' lives. The speaker differentiates between the indwelling of the Holy Spirit as a permanent reality at conversion and the filling of the Holy Spirit as an ongoing experience, citing Romans chapter 8. He addresses the question of whether the filling or baptism of the Holy Spirit is a "second work" subsequent to salvation, arguing against this idea and stating that the Spirit's indwelling is a permanent reality from the point of belief. The miracle of tongues in Acts 2 is described as a miracle of languages, enabling Galileans to speak of "the mighty works of God" to people from various nations, drawing a parallel to Genesis chapter 11 and the Tower of Babel where God scattered people by confusing their languages, but in Acts 2, he gathers them by enabling understanding. The speaker concludes by encouraging listeners to read Acts 2 again, reflect on moments God has shown up in their lives, and ask the Holy Spirit to help them recognize Hihttps://www.youtube.com/embed/QQO7UZabhRo5076https://my.truevi.com/watch/HSSprk3v8pg2021-05-10T02:59:25.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/HSSprk3v8pg/hqdefault.jpgThe New Normal: Transformed by JesusThis message from Acts chapter 3 focuses on how Jesus changes lives, moving people from an "old normal" to a "new normal." The speaker discusses the story of the man lame from birth at the Beautiful Gate, who was healed by Peter and John in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. This miraculous healing, where the man went from being utterly helpless to walking and leaping, is presented as a picture of the spiritual transformation God offers, moving individuals from spiritual death to spiritual life. Peter's sermon to the astounded crowd emphasizes that the healing was not by their power but by Jesus, whom the people had denied and killed, but God raised from the dead. The message calls for repentance and turning back so that sins may be blotted out, times of refreshing may come, and Jesus, the Christ appointed for them, may be sent. This aligns with what God foretold through prophets like Moses and the covenant made with Abraham in Genesis chapter 12 verse 3, where all families of the earth would be blessed through his offspring. The speaker encourages listeners to consider if Jesus has altered their lives, changing their priorities and values. He shares a personal story about dealing with customer service as an example of ongoing transformation. The message concludes by urging listeners to tell their stories of how Jesus has changed their normal, to pray for others who need their normal changed, and to consider baptism as a public declaration of their new life in Christ.https://www.youtube.com/embed/HSSprk3v8pg5096https://my.truevi.com/watch/hL5BOatg8Ao2021-05-17T02:53:05.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/hL5BOatg8Ao/hqdefault.jpgConfidence in the New Normal: Acts 4-5This message explores confidence in the "new normal," distinguishing between self-confidence and confidence found in a relationship with Christ. The speaker argues that while we are fearfully and wonderfully made and possess gifts, true confidence comes from Jesus seeing us at our worst and offering rescue and salvation. This gospel-centered life involves being transformed by Jesus, a process that often involves tension, which is presented as an indicator of being alive and engaged in growth. The teaching then turns to Acts chapters 4 and 5, focusing on Peter and John's boldness before the religious council after healing a crippled man. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, declares that the healing occurred by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom they crucified and God raised from the dead. He asserts that "there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." This message, though offensive to the council, leaves them with nothing to say in opposition due to the healed man standing before them. Despite threats and beatings, Peter and John refuse to stop speaking in Jesus' name, stating, "We must obey God rather than man." They rejoice in suffering dishonor for the name of Christ, demonstrating a confidence rooted in Jesus' altering work in their lives and the power of His name. The speaker emphasizes that God promises His presence and transforming power, not an easy life, and encourages listeners to engage with the Holy Spirit's work in their lives and exchange self-confidence for confidence in Christ.https://www.youtube.com/embed/hL5BOatg8Ao5061https://my.truevi.com/watch/BbeJv2ayD-g2021-05-24T02:54:59.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/BbeJv2ayD-g/hqdefault.jpgThe New Normal: Authenticity in Acts 4-5This message from Two Rivers Church begins with baptisms, featuring personal stories of faith from individuals like Evelyn and Brock. The speaker, Dave, then introduces a discussion on authenticity, drawing from Acts chapter 4. He clarifies that the "new normal" after Jesus' resurrection is an authentic life with Jesus and others, contrasting this with culture's version of authenticity. The sermon examines Acts 4:32-35, highlighting the early church's unity, shared possessions, and the apostles' testimony to Jesus' resurrection. Dave connects this to Jesus' words in John's Gospel about disciples being known by their love for one another. He emphasizes that God's people reflect God's power and heart, and the core message remains that Jesus is alive. The passage also describes the radical generosity of the early believers, noting that while their specific actions (selling lands and houses) are descriptive, not prescriptive, the principle of gospel generosity extends beyond money to time and priorities. The message then turns to Acts 4:36-5:16, detailing the stories of Barnabas, Ananias, and Sapphira. Dave explores the sudden deaths of Ananias and Sapphira after lying about their property sale, contrasting their actions with the authentic life. He argues that the "real you" for a believer is the "new creation" in Christ, as described in 2 Corinthians chapter 5, not the old, broken self. He cautions against using "authenticity" to excuse bad behavior and emphasizes a call to holiness. The sermon concludes by noting the result of these events in Acts 5:12-16: more people followed Jesus, and the power and heart of God were on display, leading to many healings. The speaker encourages listeners to ask Jesus who they should demonstrate Him to, how they might be in the way, how to show gospel generosity, and where they need to "get real" by allowing their new self in Christ to emerge.https://www.youtube.com/embed/BbeJv2ayD-g5108https://my.truevi.com/watch/u_cedpv2voM2021-05-31T02:53:31.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/u_cedpv2voM/hqdefault.jpgThe New Normal: Serving in the Early ChurchThis message from Acts chapter 6 explores the early church's need to establish priorities and structure as it grew. The speaker highlights that the apostles, facing a complaint from Hellenist widows about neglect in daily distribution, decided to devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the word. They appointed seven men, including Stephen and Philip, who were full of the Spirit and wisdom, to serve in this capacity. This decision led to the word of God increasing and the number of disciples multiplying greatly in Jerusalem, with many priests becoming obedient to the faith. The speaker draws a parallel to Moses in Exodus chapter 18, where his father-in-law advised him to prioritize prayer and teaching God's statutes and laws. The sermon emphasizes that serving others requires structure and is rooted in a life transformed by Jesus. It argues that serving demands new priorities, encouraging listeners to be word-dependent and spirit-empowered, leading to a life of service. The message concludes by encouraging the congregation to serve in various ministries, from holding babies to operating cameras, emphasizing that every act of service contributes to the gospel going forth. It invites listeners to visit 2rc.tv/serve and ask the Holy Spirit where they are called to serve.https://www.youtube.com/embed/u_cedpv2voM5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/AX7naeXswi42021-06-07T02:54:30.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/AX7naeXswi4/hqdefault.jpgBoundless Love: Extreme Forgiveness in HoseaThis message introduces a series on the boundless love of God, focusing on extreme forgiveness. The speaker transitions from the book of Acts to Hosea, specifically Hosea chapter one, verses one through three. He explains that Hosea was called to marry a promiscuous woman, Gomer, to visually represent Israel's unfaithfulness to God. The speaker emphasizes that God's boundless love is known in extreme forgiveness, and that we are "far worse than you think you are," but God's grace is "greater still." The speaker also discusses how God's boundless love is demonstrated through discipline, referencing Proverbs 13 and Hebrews 12. He shares personal anecdotes about his daughter Megan and his own experiences with God's discipline, noting that discipline, while difficult, is an act of love meant to draw us back to God. He then connects Hosea's story of buying back Gomer to Jesus' parable of the loving father in Luke chapter 15, highlighting the extreme forgiveness and love of God. The message concludes with a call to return home to God, emphasizing that Jesus is God's boundless love and extreme forgiveness demonstrated. The speaker leads the congregation in communion, using the bread to represent the body of Christ and the juice to represent his blood, as a remembrance of how we come into relationship with Christ and experience his grace and love. He encourages listeners to pray for forgiveness and for others to experience God's pursuit.https://www.youtube.com/embed/AX7naeXswi45112https://my.truevi.com/watch/Z6xe3TjBAwI2021-06-14T02:51:57.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Z6xe3TjBAwI/hqdefault.jpgBoundless: God's Relentless Pursuit in HoseaThis teaching is the second week of a four-week series called "Boundless," which is a study through the book of Hosea. The speaker, Tim, who is the campus pastor at the Bearden campus, focuses on God's pursuit of us. He notes that this pursuit can feel beautiful, like a love story, or it can feel like being chased by a bear, leading one to wonder, "God, what are you up to?" The main idea is that God's relentless love is felt in his pursuit. The message delves into Hosea chapter 1, starting from verse 3, and the first verse of chapter 2. Hosea is identified as a minor prophet, one of the last 12 books of the Old Testament, and a contemporary of Jonah. The context is set in the divided kingdom of Israel, with Hosea prophesying in the northern kingdom. The speaker recounts God's command to Hosea to marry Gomer, a promiscuous woman, and the birth of their three children: Jezreel, No Mercy (Loruhamah), and Not My People (Lo-ammi). These names convey an escalating message of doom for Israel, signifying God's judgment, the end of the kingdom, the withdrawal of mercy, and the declaration that they are no longer His people. The speaker explains that God wanted Israel to feel the reality of their sin, comparing it to a parent allowing a child to experience the consequences of their actions. Israel's sin was idolatry, not outright rejection of God, but placing other gods alongside Him, such as gods for storms or fertility. The speaker defines an idol as anything that competes with God in one's life, seeking to provide what only God can give, such as life, meaning, or identity. He uses patriotism as an example of a good thing that can become an idol. Despite the painful pursuit, Hosea 1:10-11 and Hosea 2:1 reveal God's promise of restoration, using language from God's promise to Abraham about his descendants being like the sand of the sea. This promise is fulfilled in Christ, as referenced in 1 Peter 2:9-10, where the church is called a chosen race, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation, who once were not a people but are https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z6xe3TjBAwI5064https://my.truevi.com/watch/oIjUWggeTtA2021-06-21T02:58:45.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/oIjUWggeTtA/hqdefault.jpgHosea 3: God's Restoring LoveThis Father's Day message continues a series in the book of Hosea, focusing on Hosea chapter 3. The speaker uses the analogy of a classic car, a 1968 Camaro, found rotting in a field but capable of being fully restored, to illustrate the idea that "God's love is what restores us." He references Romans 3:23, stating that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," and that sin separates us from God, leaving us in need of restoration. The message explores Hosea chapter 3 in three parts: God commanding Hosea to pursue Gomer (verse 1), Hosea paying to redeem Gomer (verse 2), and the promise of restoration (verses 3-5). The speaker emphasizes that Hosea's life pictures God's heart for His people, pursuing them even when they have gone astray, just as Gomer left Hosea. He identifies listeners as Gomer or Israel, who have pursued idols, and shares a personal example of recognizing an idol of unrealistic expectations. Romans chapter 5 verse 8 is cited: "but God shows his love demonstrates his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us." The speaker explains that Gomer's sin led to her enslavement, requiring Hosea to pay a price to redeem her, using "15 shekels of silver and a homer and a lethik of barley." This redemption is presented as a picture of God's love paying for humanity's sin through Jesus, who lived a perfect life and paid the full price on the cross. The promise in Hosea 3:3-5 is discussed, where Gomer and Israel are called to turn from their ways and dwell with God. Verse 5 is highlighted as a prophecy referring to a king from the line of David, the messianic king, Jesus, who is the promised one who dwells with us by the power of His Holy Spirit. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to identify areas in their lives where God is pursuing restoration and to consider who God might be pursuing through them.https://www.youtube.com/embed/oIjUWggeTtA5108https://my.truevi.com/watch/wtnIcdangB42021-06-28T02:51:18.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/wtnIcdangB4/hqdefault.jpgHosea 14: God's Boundless LoveThis sermon focuses on the book of Hosea, specifically chapter 14, as the conclusion of a four-week series. The speaker begins by referencing Psalm 111:1-3 and Lamentations 3:22-23, emphasizing God's steadfast love and new mercies each morning. He explains that Hosea chapters 1-3 depicted God's love for a disobedient people, while chapters 4-13 showed Israel's back-and-forth relationship with God, with calls to "return." Chapter 14 is presented as a summary of God's boundless love and a call to turn to Him. The speaker outlines a three-part process for turning to Jesus: owning your "stuff" or sin, experiencing God's healing, and walking in that healing. He cites Hosea 14:1-3, where Israel is called to return to the Lord, acknowledge their iniquity, and use words to confess their sins, specifically mentioning reliance on Assyria, horses (resources/armies), and their own hands instead of God. He clarifies that "iniquity" encompasses all things against God's call, including the "top ten" sins or the Ten Commandments. He shares a personal testimony of realizing his "people-pleasing" nature was a sin, which God revealed to him around age 50, particularly when leaving a church in Charlotte, North Carolina, to move to Knoxville, Tennessee, led to feelings of betrayal from former leaders. He realized he had made people more important than God. He then discusses Hosea 14:4-8, where God promises to heal their apostasy, which is defined as abandoning belief or turning away from God. God promises refreshment like dew, blossoming like a lily, taking root like trees of Lebanon, and dwelling under His shadow, offering respite, rescue, and restoration. The speaker shares that God has healed him from finding his identity in others, allowing him to have healthier relationships and a deeper connection with Jesus. He reads a letter from pastor Kurt Bubna, which describes the challenges of pastoring during the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for forgiveness, both for others and oneself. The sermon concludes with an assignment to prahttps://www.youtube.com/embed/wtnIcdangB45119https://my.truevi.com/watch/EMk2OFPRUrg2021-07-05T02:57:10.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/EMk2OFPRUrg/hqdefault.jpgHonest Prayers: Facing FearThis sermon begins a July series called "Honest Prayers," emphasizing that God desires a transparent heart, not a dishonest one. The speaker suggests that mistrust in human relationships often carries over into our relationship with God, making us hesitant to be truly honest. Prayer is described as a conversational relationship with God, a two-way dialogue where we speak to Him through the Holy Spirit and He speaks to us through the scriptures. This week's focus is on fear. The speaker notes that while the Bible says "do not fear," this doesn't mean we won't experience the emotion, but rather that we must decide what to do when we are afraid. Fear is a real emotion, created by God, and can be helpful. The honest conversation begins by admitting fear, as seen in King Hezekiah's prayer in 2 Kings chapter 20, verses 1 through 11. Hezekiah, facing death, "wept bitterly" and prayed to the Lord, who responded through Isaiah, saying, "I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you." God added 15 years to Hezekiah's life and gave a miraculous sign by making the shadow go back ten steps. The speaker highlights that God cares about all our fears, big or small. King David, in Psalm 56, verses 3 and 4, says, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?" This illustrates that fear is an opportunity to run to Jesus, not to cope with it alone. The honest conversation also means being open to God's answer being "yes" or "no." Examples of "no" include David's child dying, Paul's "thorn in the flesh," and John the Baptist's imprisonment and death. Even Jesus, in the garden, prayed for the cup to be removed, but ultimately submitted to the Father's will. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to name their fears, run to Jesus with them, and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the underlying issues.https://www.youtube.com/embed/EMk2OFPRUrg5104https://my.truevi.com/watch/N_kZ-TSlYnc2021-07-12T02:51:31.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/N_kZ-TSlYnc/hqdefault.jpgHonest Prayers: Recombobulated by God (Psalm 51)This message explores having an honest conversation with God when life feels "discombobulated," a word the speaker defines as mixed up or out of order. The focus is on Psalm 51, described as a prayer of repentance and confession. The speaker introduces the made-up word "recombobulated" to describe how an honest conversation with God about sin can realign one's life. The context for Psalm 51 is David's affair with Bathsheba and his subsequent actions involving Uriah, Bathsheba's husband, as recounted in 2 Samuel. The speaker details how the prophet Nathan confronted David with a story about a rich man and a poor man's lamb, leading David to realize his sin. Psalm 51:1-12 is read, and four principles are drawn from it: it's better to know your sin than not to know it; you need to know yourself a little and God a lot; there is joy in coming clean; and this kind of honesty with God is essential to following Jesus. The speaker emphasizes that David didn't make excuses for his sin, acknowledging it was against God, as stated in Psalm 51. David's understanding of God's steadfast love and abundant mercy, as described in Exodus 34:6, allowed him to approach God honestly. The message concludes by encouraging listeners to keep "short accounts with God" by regularly confessing sin and seeking realignment, and suggests praying Psalm 51 and discussing it with others.https://www.youtube.com/embed/N_kZ-TSlYnc5114https://my.truevi.com/watch/4Bq21hT_fDg2021-07-19T02:55:57.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/4Bq21hT_fDg/hqdefault.jpgHonest Prayers: When God Seems SilentThis sermon, part of the "Honest Prayers" series, addresses the question: "What do I do when I'm pressed and God seems silent?" The speaker defines prayer as a conversational relationship with God, emphasizing that honest conversations involve being "brutally honest" in a "kind loving sort of way." He shares a personal story from 2005 involving his father's death, job loss, and his wife's cancer diagnosis, during which he found solace in Pete Gregg's book, *God on Mute*. The teaching focuses on Jesus's prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, found in Matthew 26:36-46. Jesus goes to Gethsemane, which means "olive press," a detail noted by both Matthew and Mark, to pray. The speaker highlights Jesus's deep sorrow, even to death, and his prayer: "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will." He suggests that Jesus's cry was an intense "not this, God, not this," similar to how King Hezekiah cried out in 2 Kings 20:1-6 when told he would die, and God granted him 15 more years. The speaker argues that God is not linear and that our intercession matters, even if the answer is "no." The sermon concludes by emphasizing that Jesus's honest conversation led to a heart resolved to follow God's plan, even to the cross. The speaker encourages listeners to keep praying and take the next step, even when God seems silent in one area, by lifting their gaze to other areas of life and other people. He quotes Toby Mac: "It's hard to hear God's voice when you've already decided what you want him to say." He also references Luke 22:44, noting Jesus's earnest prayer and sweat like drops of blood. The speaker reminds the audience that Jesus promised, "You will have trouble," and that God is with us in our struggles, even when life is hard. He cautions against misinterpreting Jeremiah 29:11, reminding that its context was 70 years of bondage. He encourages listeners to ask themselves: "Where have I struggled because God seemed silent?" and "How can I be resolved to follow Jesus in thhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/4Bq21hT_fDg5106https://my.truevi.com/watch/HnOcwHihTt02021-07-26T02:53:13.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/HnOcwHihTt0/hqdefault.jpgHonest Prayers: Contentment in the Mess (Acts 16)This sermon, part of the "Honest Prayers" series, focuses on having honest conversations with God that lead to contentment in life's mess. The speaker, Dave, uses the story of Paul and Silas in Acts chapter 16 to illustrate this point. He recounts how Paul and Silas, after being called by the spirit of Jesus to Macedonia and then Philippi, found themselves beaten and imprisoned in a maximum-security jail. Despite their circumstances, Paul and Silas were "praying and singing hymns to God" at midnight (Acts 16:25). This honest conversation with God, rooted in praise, changed their perspective. The speaker contrasts their reaction with what he might expect, drawing parallels to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's declaration in the fiery furnace and Peter walking on water, emphasizing that their praise was not conditional on release. An earthquake, described as a "supernatural intervention of God," opened the prison doors and unfastened everyone's bonds. However, Paul and Silas, along with the other prisoners, stayed. This led to an opportunity to share the gospel with the jailer, who, fearing the consequences of escaped prisoners, was about to kill himself. Paul cried out, "Do not harm yourself, for we are all here" (Acts 16:28). The jailer then asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" (Acts 16:30), to which Paul and Silas replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your whole household" (Acts 16:31). The speaker concludes that honest conversations with God, especially those rooted in praise, change our perspective, open our eyes to opportunities, and ultimately lead to contentment, even in difficult circumstances. He encourages listeners to identify one person they are praying comes to know Jesus and one thing they can praise God for today.https://www.youtube.com/embed/HnOcwHihTt05111https://my.truevi.com/watch/HAFzEfzNtGg2021-08-02T02:57:42.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/HAFzEfzNtGg/hqdefault.jpgUnstoppable: Embracing God's Kingdom (Acts 6)This teaching kicks off a new series called "Unstoppable," focusing on the unstoppable kingdom of God and what it means for followers of Jesus to fully embrace it. The speaker defines the kingdom of God as the rule of God, entered only through faith in Jesus Christ. He explains that while the phrase "kingdom of God" isn't in the Old Testament, the theme of God as king of Israel is present, and in the New Testament, Jesus becomes that king through his death and resurrection. The speaker references Graham Goldsworthy's summary: "The kingdom of God involves God's people in God's place under God's rule." The sermon then moves into Acts chapter 6, focusing on Stephen, who was "full of grace and power" and doing "great wonders and signs among the people" (verse 8). Stephen's story illustrates what it means to fully embrace God's kingdom, even in the face of adversity. The speaker highlights that Stephen was "empowered by the spirit of God" and "fully dependent upon the word of God." He describes how Jewish leaders, despite their usual disagreements, united against Stephen, accusing him of speaking "blasphemous words against Moses and God" (verse 11) and setting up "false witnesses" (verse 13). Stephen's response, when asked if these accusations were true, was to recount God's story from Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and David, connecting it to the temple and ultimately to Jesus. He then confronts his accusers, calling them "stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears" who "always resist the Holy Spirit" (verse 51), referencing Exodus chapter 32 verse 9. The speaker explains that "stiff-necked" implies resistance to God's leading. Stephen then sees "the glory of God and Jesus at the right hand of God" (verse 55) before being stoned to death. His final words were, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" and "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (verses 59-60). The speaker notes that the New Testament uses "fell asleep" as a euphemism for death to emphasize the eternal nature of God's kingdom for believers. The sermon cohttps://www.youtube.com/embed/HAFzEfzNtGg5111https://my.truevi.com/watch/W_L9WToviMo2021-08-09T02:54:39.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/W_L9WToviMo/hqdefault.jpgThe Unstoppable Kingdom of God: Acts 8This message from the book of Acts explores the unstoppable kingdom of God, focusing on the freedom found in understanding God's part and our part in its expansion. The speaker references Ephesians 6:12, which states, "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." The kingdom of God is defined as "God's people in God's place under God's rule," entered only through faith in Jesus. The sermon examines Acts chapter 8, beginning with the scattering of believers due to persecution and their subsequent preaching of the word. Philip, a church leader mentioned in Acts chapter 6, goes to Samaria and proclaims Christ, performing signs and healings. Later, an angel of the Lord directs Philip to the road from Jerusalem to Gaza, where he encounters an Ethiopian eunuch reading from the prophet Isaiah. Philip explains the scripture, specifically Isaiah 53:7-8, connecting it to Jesus, leading to the eunuch's baptism. The speaker emphasizes two foundational principles: God's part is to lead, initiating action, revealing truth through His word, and transforming hearts through the Spirit. Our part is to join God by understanding the basic story of the gospel, recognizing God's leading through an active relationship with Jesus, and proclaiming Jesus in word and action. The message encourages believers to pray for specific individuals, be sensitive to God's opportunities, and consider learning how to weave their personal story with God's story.https://www.youtube.com/embed/W_L9WToviMo5112https://my.truevi.com/watch/Nr094ZUJug42021-08-23T02:54:32.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Nr094ZUJug4/hqdefault.jpgThe Unstoppable Kingdom of God: Acts 10-11This message continues a series on the unstoppable kingdom of God, emphasizing that Jesus is active even amidst global chaos. The speaker notes recent events like the earthquake in Haiti and political upheaval in Afghanistan, encouraging prayer for those affected, including Christians facing persecution. The sermon also includes a prayer for families returning to school, asking for hope, courage, and boldness for students, teachers, and administrators. The teaching defines the kingdom of God as God's people living in God's place under God's rule, with citizenship granted through faith in Jesus alone. It challenges the idea that the kingdom is just for "me," asserting that "God's kingdom is for we," meaning it is for all people. The speaker references Paul's letter to the church in Ephesus, stating that all are born children of wrath and need a savior. The message highlights that Jesus died for billions, not just individuals, and encourages listeners to consider who they might deem "undeserving" of God's kingdom. The sermon then delves into Acts chapter 10, focusing on Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and Peter's vision of unclean animals. Peter is sent to Cornelius's house, where he proclaims the gospel, stating that "everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name" (Acts 10:43). The Holy Spirit falls on Cornelius and his household, including Gentiles, leading Peter to declare that they should be baptized. The speaker addresses the "circumcision party" in Acts 11, who criticized Peter for eating with uncircumcised men, and Peter's defense by recounting God's work. The message concludes by urging listeners to consider where they have lost the "we" in the gospel and who they consider undeserving of God's reach, encouraging them to read Acts chapters 10 and 11.https://www.youtube.com/embed/Nr094ZUJug45115https://my.truevi.com/watch/scdnoU4qBvU2021-08-30T02:51:49.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/scdnoU4qBvU/hqdefault.jpgUnstoppable Kingdom: Peter's DeliveranceThis message continues a series on the "unstoppable kingdom of God," emphasizing that God's kingdom expands even when it's not perceived. The speaker defines the kingdom of God as "God's people in God's place living under God's rule," and states that entry into this kingdom comes through a personal relationship with Jesus. He challenges the idea that "seeing is believing," citing "inattentional blindness" as an example of how people can miss what's right in front of them, both physically and spiritually. The sermon then turns to Acts chapter 12, where Herod kills James, the brother of John, and imprisons Peter. The speaker notes that the church makes "earnest prayer" for Peter. He discusses how it can seem like the enemy is winning, and that the "way is up to God" in how His kingdom expands. Peter is miraculously freed from prison by an angel, but when he arrives at the house where people are praying for him, they initially don't believe it's him, thinking it's his angel. The speaker highlights that "prayer is the means to join in God's kingdom" and encourages listeners to recognize God's answers to prayer, even if they seem like coincidences. He references persecution.com from Voice of the Martyrs as a resource to gain perspective on global Christian persecution. The message concludes by noting Herod's death in Acts 12, where he is "eaten by worms" for not giving God the glory, and reiterates that "the word of God increased and multiplied." The speaker encourages listeners to trust God, even when His actions are not understood, and to pray for those outside their sphere of influence and for God to reveal where He is at work in their own lives. He quotes 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, stating that "this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen for the things that are seen are transient but the things that are unseen are eternal."https://www.youtube.com/embed/scdnoU4qBvU5066https://my.truevi.com/watch/WOxt-Qy-ieU2021-09-06T02:51:58.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/WOxt-Qy-ieU/hqdefault.jpgThe Unstoppable Kingdom: Church Is PeopleThis sermon concludes a series on the "unstoppable kingdom of God," defining the kingdom as "God's people in God's place under God's rule." The speaker emphasizes that the church is how individuals participate in this kingdom, challenging the idea that church is merely a place to go or a box to check. He shares personal anecdotes about his early experiences with church, highlighting how his "wrong thinking" about its nature led to it being an inconvenience. The teaching then moves to Acts chapter 11, providing context from Acts chapter 7 and 9, and the story of Peter and Cornelius in Acts chapter 10. The speaker focuses on the church in Antioch, the third largest city in the Roman Empire, where Barnabas and Saul (who became a believer in Acts chapter 9) taught for a whole year. This extended teaching was necessary to replace "wrong thinking" about worship, which included temple prostitution, with "right thinking" based on God's word. He connects this to Romans chapter 12 verse 2, which speaks of being "transformed by the renewal of your mind." The speaker argues that "church is people," not a building, and that as followers of Christ, individuals "are the church" and represent the kingdom of God everywhere they go. He discusses Agabus's prophecy of a famine in Acts chapter 11, verses 27 through 30, and how the church in Antioch, led by the Holy Spirit, responded by sending relief to Judea. This illustrates that the church should be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading, both corporately and individually. He addresses the "false dichotomy" of serving "out there" versus serving in a local church, encouraging believers to be the church in their communities and to participate in local church life. He concludes by stating that God's primary plan to reach the world is through the church, despite its brokenness, and encourages listeners to read Acts chapter 11 and ask the Holy Spirit about their role in the church.https://www.youtube.com/embed/WOxt-Qy-ieU5073https://my.truevi.com/watch/zuw8M1ntFyM2021-09-13T03:50:15.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/zuw8M1ntFyM/hqdefault.jpgWhat's Next: God's Story Continues in Acts 13This teaching kicks off a new series called "What's Next," focusing on the rest of the book of Acts, specifically from chapter 13 to the end. The speaker emphasizes that God is still writing his story through his followers, and that the next chapter of God's story is still being written today through the church. He asserts that God is never caught off guard, referencing 9/11 and COVID-19, and encourages perseverance in following Jesus as essential to being part of God's ongoing story. The sermon highlights Acts 13, where the Holy Spirit sets apart Barnabas and Saul for work, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit is the author of God's story, both in scripture and today. The speaker references Paul's letter to Timothy, stating "all scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching for reproof for correction for training in righteousness," and 2 Peter 1, which says "no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." He clarifies that Saul's name change to Paul in Acts 13:9 was due to his mission to the Greek-speaking world, not a divine name change. The speaker encourages personal engagement with Acts 13 and 14, describing how Paul links the scriptures to Jesus, much like Stephen did in Acts 6 and 7. He discusses Paul's proclamation of the good news, including the comparison between King David and Jesus, citing Acts 13:36-39, and the life-changing nature of personally encountering God's word. The sermon concludes by stressing that being part of God's story is not meant to be easy, as evidenced by Paul's stoning, and encourages prayer and fasting as ways to engage in the spiritual battle. A couple shares their testimony of coming to faith during the pandemic, illustrating God's continued work. Viewers are encouraged to write down names of people they know who don't know Jesus yet and pray for them.https://www.youtube.com/embed/zuw8M1ntFyM5116https://my.truevi.com/watch/lzn0F9DOMns2021-09-20T02:57:26.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/lzn0F9DOMns/hqdefault.jpgWhat's Next: Jesus Alone SavesThis teaching from Acts chapter 15 focuses on the early church's struggle to define the gospel, specifically the fundamental principle that "Jesus alone saves and calls us to live by grace." The speaker highlights the debate in Acts 15:1-11, where some from Judea insisted on circumcision and adherence to the law of Moses for salvation. Peter's argument, that salvation is "through the grace of the Lord Jesus," is presented as the key verse, emphasizing that grace is "nothing more, nothing less." The speaker uses a 1970s song about signs to illustrate how people often add rules and regulations to faith, making it "Jesus and something more." The sermon also explores the concept of "Grace experienced is Grace lived out," drawing from Acts 15:12-41. It discusses the deference shown by Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James during the Jerusalem Council, and how James refers to the prophets, quoting Amos, to confirm that the inclusion of Gentiles was always God's plan. The letter sent to the churches, found in Acts 15:23-29, is presented as a clear statement of gospel clarity, emphasizing that it "seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us" to lay no greater burden than abstaining from certain practices. The speaker notes that even with this clarity, Paul and Barnabas later had a "heated debate" over Mark, showing that unity on the gospel doesn't mean agreement on all things. Finally, the speaker introduces the idea that "grace is sequential," meaning "the grace I get then is the grace I give." He emphasizes that God initiates grace, as "no one comes to me unless the father first draw them," and that it's "unmerited favor." The speaker warns against "reverse ordering" grace by thinking we earn it or can disqualify ourselves from it, referencing Titus and Ephesians 2:8-9. He also addresses Paul's decision to circumcise Timothy in Acts 16:1-5, explaining it as an act of grace and personal freedom for the sake of the gospel, not a return to legalism. The sermon concludes with a call to remember Jesus' words, "do this in remembrahttps://www.youtube.com/embed/lzn0F9DOMns5067https://my.truevi.com/watch/kg7Lugl7pys2021-10-04T02:49:47.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/kg7Lugl7pys/hqdefault.jpgWhat's Next: Paul's Example in ActsThis teaching continues the "What's Next" series in Acts, focusing on Paul's example for living a life in what God has next. The speaker references Paul's letter to the church in Rome, stating that "it is with your heart that you believe and are justified and it's with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved," and that "anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame," with "no difference between Jew and Gentile." He also quotes, "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." The sermon centers on Acts chapter 19 and 20, specifically Paul's meeting with the Ephesian church elders in Miletus. Paul describes living a gospel-centered life, testifying "both to the Jews and to Greeks of repentance toward God and of our faith in the Lord Jesus" (Acts 20:21). He emphasizes that he does not "shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable" (Acts 20:20) and that he does not "account my life of any value or is precious to myself if only I may finish the course and the ministry that I receive from the Lord Jesus to testify to the gospel of the grace of God" (Acts 20:24). The speaker also references 1 Corinthians chapter 11, where Paul says, "be imitators of me as I am of Christ." The second point is living a "heart-guarded life." Paul tells the elders to "pay careful attention to yourselves" (Acts 20:28). The speaker cites Proverbs 4:23, "above all else guard your heart for everything you do flows from it," and Proverbs 23:24, "my son give me your heart and let your eyes observe my ways." He also mentions Jeremiah's description of the heart as "deceitfully wicked." The third point is living an "other's concerned life," where Paul warns that "fierce wolves will come in among you not sparing the flock and from among your own selves will rise men speaking twisted things to draw away the disciples from them" (Acts 20:29-30). The teaching concludes with a call to pray Psalm 139:23-24: "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous wahttps://www.youtube.com/embed/kg7Lugl7pys5093https://my.truevi.com/watch/3C2pYbt_Kqg2021-10-11T02:53:09.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/3C2pYbt_Kqg/hqdefault.jpgPaul's Obedience and Suffering in ActsThis sermon, part of the "What's Next" series, continues in the book of Acts, focusing on Paul's journey to Jerusalem. The speaker highlights Paul's extreme obedience, even when facing imprisonment and afflictions as testified by the Holy Spirit in Acts 20:22-23 and foretold by the prophet Agabus in Acts 21:10-11. Despite warnings from believers in Tyre and Caesarea, Paul declares his readiness to be imprisoned or die for Jesus, as seen in Acts 21:13. The message emphasizes that everyday obedience prepares believers for difficult times. The speaker recounts Paul's beating in Jerusalem, as described in Acts 21:30-36, and his subsequent address to the crowd in Hebrew, identifying himself as a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no obscure city, before being rescued by Roman soldiers. Even in prison, the Lord stood by Paul, telling him to "take courage" and testify in Rome, as stated in Acts 23:11. The sermon concludes by encouraging "everyday obedience," using the example of "3x5 cards" for consistent prayer for others to know Christ. It features a testimony and baptism of Paul, whose son Jeff, also a believer, baptizes him, illustrating the fruit of persistent prayer and obedience. The speaker encourages baptism as a next step of obedience for those who have committed their lives to Jesus Christ, referencing 2rc.tv/baptism.https://www.youtube.com/embed/3C2pYbt_Kqg5094https://my.truevi.com/watch/9yZugZu9nEE2021-10-18T02:50:01.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/9yZugZu9nEE/hqdefault.jpgThe Resurrected Life: What's Next? Part VIThis sermon explores the concept of "what's next" for followers of Jesus and the church, focusing on the resurrected life as its core. The speaker notes that many people feel tired and worn out, and while physical rest is sometimes needed, Jesus offers a deeper rest and a "life to the fullest." He argues that Jesus holds the answer for weariness, and this answer is found in the resurrected life. The speaker references Paul's trials in Acts chapters 24, 25, and 26, where Paul repeatedly emphasizes the resurrection. In Acts 24:14-15, Paul states his hope in a future resurrection of both the just and the unjust. In Acts 25:19, Governor Festus notes that Paul asserts Jesus, who was dead, to be alive. In Acts 26:2-8, Paul defends himself before King Agrippa, stating he is on trial because of his hope in God's promise to their fathers, asking "Why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead?" The speaker explains that the resurrection is our hope, encompassing both a future resurrection at the end of time, as described in 1 Peter 1:3-5, and a present spiritual resurrection experienced by believers. He cites Paul's words in Colossians 3:1-3, encouraging believers to "seek the things that are above" because they have "been raised with Christ." The speaker emphasizes that this resurrected life is "for all," not just a select few, and references Jesus's words to Paul in Acts 26:17-18 about turning from darkness to light and receiving forgiveness of sins. Paul's teaching in Acts 26:20 to "repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance" is highlighted. Finally, in Acts 26:22-23, Paul states that he is saying "nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would come to pass," specifically that Christ "must suffer and that by being the first to rise from the dead he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles," fulfilling what God has been working on since the beginning, as seen in Isaiah 49:6. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to apply the truth of thhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/9yZugZu9nEE5098https://my.truevi.com/watch/mAjZ-uwJWpA2021-10-25T02:56:28.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/mAjZ-uwJWpA/hqdefault.jpgWhat's Next: God's Word and Spirit Inspire FaithThis message from Two Rivers Church, delivered by Todd, the campus pastor at Roane County, focuses on the truth of God's Word and the power of God's Spirit. He begins by referencing Psalm 18, where King David wrote, "The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold," as a reminder that God can be trusted even when life doesn't feel that way. The speaker then shares a passage from Titus, where Paul writes to a friend, stating, "For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and lovingkindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit." This passage reminds the audience that they were once "dead in our sins" and that it is God's mercy and power that transforms lives. The sermon continues by exploring the book of Acts, emphasizing that it is not a model to be replicated, but rather "the story of what happened as the church began." The speaker proposes that if there is a model in Acts, it is "wholly dependent on the truth of God's word and the power of the holy spirit." The big idea for the weekend is that "the truth of God's word and the power of God's Spirit inspire faith for today and for tomorrow." The speaker then shares a personal story about a bicycle accident in August of 2003, which he believes God used to redirect his career path, illustrating that "the god of acts is the god of your story." The message then delves into Acts chapter 27, recounting Paul's journey to Rome. Despite being declared innocent by leaders at the end of chapter 26, Paul appealed to Caesar. During the voyage, they encountered a major storm, and in Acts 27:20, it states, "When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and no small tempest lhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/mAjZ-uwJWpA5097https://my.truevi.com/watch/_W6nGRmxwIg2021-11-01T03:07:07.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/_W6nGRmxwIg/hqdefault.jpgWhat's Next: God's Word and SpiritThis message concludes the "What's Next" series, focusing on how the truth of God's word and the power of God's Spirit motivate believers to keep going. The speaker references Psalm 16:11, which states, "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore." The sermon emphasizes that the church is not a building but a people, God's people, set apart for God's purpose to follow Jesus. The "Acts model" is described as depending on the truth of God's word and the power of the Holy Spirit. The teaching then moves to Acts chapter 28, detailing Paul's arrival in Rome, his meeting with Jewish leaders, and his two years spent "proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance" (Acts 28:31). The speaker explains that the gospel is the good news of the kingdom of God, which Jesus came to proclaim, and that new life in Christ comes through submitting to God's authority, not just praying a prayer. The message highlights that the gospel is God's message, and our part is to represent it. The sermon encourages listeners to be tenacious in their faith, like Paul, and to see God's story as still in process, even when it is messy. "Digging deep" involves allowing the truth of God's word to change our minds, reminding ourselves of what is true (1 Peter 1:13, 1 Corinthians 15:58), and allowing others into our lives. The speaker also addresses the reality of depression and despair, encouraging those struggling to seek help. The message concludes with next steps: continuing to pray for those on a "three by five card," memorizing Acts 28:31, praying for vision to be part of God's story, and reading 1 Thessalonians.https://www.youtube.com/embed/_W6nGRmxwIg5084https://my.truevi.com/watch/q5DLLHhaSDE2021-11-08T03:57:11.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/q5DLLHhaSDE/hqdefault.jpgLiving God's Will: Rejoice AlwaysThis message begins a new series called "Living the Will of God," focusing on Paul's letter to the church in Thessalonica. The speaker highlights two key passages where Paul explicitly states God's will: first, in 1 Thessalonians chapter 4, verses 1-3, where God's will is identified as sanctification and abstaining from sexual immorality, meaning to be holy and set apart for God's purposes. Second, in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, Paul summarizes God's will as to "rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances." The sermon focuses on the first of these three directives: rejoicing always. The speaker explains that rejoicing is an act of obedience and a choice to pursue joy, which is found in Jesus Christ. He notes that joy can be lost through disobedience and encourages listeners to ask God to reveal any areas of their lives that are out of alignment with a holy life. Rejoicing is also presented as an everyday action, a choice that must be made persistently, even when it feels counter-intuitive or difficult due to life's circumstances. The speaker emphasizes that joy is not tied to feelings or circumstances but to truth, specifically the truth of who God is. He encourages clinging to God's Word, citing Psalm 118, particularly verse 5 ("Out of my distress I called out to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and he set me free"), verses 6-8, and verse 24 ("This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it"). Finally, rejoicing is described as something learned over time, a process of living a holy life, as described in 1 Peter chapter 1. The message concludes with a testimony from Patty Cloud, who shares her journey of choosing joy after the tragic loss of her son, Joshua, in August 2017, and a benediction from Paul's letter.https://www.youtube.com/embed/q5DLLHhaSDE5095https://my.truevi.com/watch/C92-2nJzADE2021-11-15T03:52:14.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/C92-2nJzADE/hqdefault.jpgLiving God's Will: Pray Without CeasingThis teaching continues the series "Living God's Will," focusing on choosing dependence upon God through ongoing dialogue with Him. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, the speaker highlights God's will to "rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances." The message emphasizes that God's revealed will is found in scripture, while His unrevealed will is addressed in Deuteronomy chapter 29, verse 29. The speaker defines sanctification, using Grudem's systematic theology, as a progressive work of God and man that makes us more free from sin and more like Christ. This transformation, or gospel transformation, requires our participation. The teaching explores what it means to "pray without ceasing," arguing that prayer is a declaration of dependence on God, contrasting it with the American value of independence. Dependent prayer is described as an ongoing dialogue with God, not just a list of requests. Referencing Dallas Willard's book "Hearing God," the speaker suggests that God's communication often sounds like thoughts or feelings from within. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to engage in transformational prayer, using 1 Thessalonians chapters 4 and 5 as a guide to pray for others, and to ask God to reveal areas of personal independence.https://www.youtube.com/embed/C92-2nJzADE5096https://my.truevi.com/watch/A6YauKO714Y2021-11-22T03:52:21.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/A6YauKO714Y/hqdefault.jpgLiving God's Will: Choosing ThankfulnessThis teaching continues the series "Living God's Will," focusing on what it means to be transformed by the Holy Spirit by choosing thankfulness. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, the speaker highlights the call to "rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." The message emphasizes that giving thanks in "all circumstances" is impossible without the Holy Spirit's transformative work. The speaker explains that gratefulness is based on "forever," referencing 1 Thessalonians chapter 4, verses 13-18, which discusses believers who have "fallen asleep" and the coming of the Lord. This eternal perspective, including the hope of seeing loved ones in Christ again and the future resurrection, serves as a motivation for gratitude. The teaching also touches on the "day of the Lord" from 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, verses 9-11, noting that for those in Christ, it is not a day of wrath but of salvation and living with Jesus. The sermon describes gospel transformation as a process within "life in Christ," where choosing to rejoice and pray leads to gratefulness. It encourages believers to stop grumbling and complaining, even about everyday difficulties, because they are "a people of hope." The speaker concludes by urging listeners to identify what they are grateful for, starting with their "forever" in Christ, and to make a conscious choice to be grateful in all circumstances, as guided by Psalm 145:10-13.https://www.youtube.com/embed/A6YauKO714Y5095https://my.truevi.com/watch/5hKRhMhG2Vg2021-11-29T03:52:50.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/5hKRhMhG2Vg/hqdefault.jpgUnto Us: Emmanuel, God With Us - Isaiah 7:14This sermon begins a new Advent series called "Unto Us," focusing on Isaiah's prophecies about the coming Messiah. The speaker highlights Isaiah's message of hope during a time of hopelessness and rebellion, noting that God would send Jesus to give life to those lost in sin. The message emphasizes the meaning of "Emmanuel," which means "God with us," and how this truth changes perspective. The sermon centers on Isaiah chapter 7, particularly verse 14, which states, "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." This verse is presented in the context of King Ahaz of Judah, who was terrified by an alliance between Israel and Aram. God sent Isaiah to Ahaz, promising that these nations would not succeed and offering Ahaz a sign. Ahaz refused, claiming he would not test the Lord, but God gave the sign anyway. The speaker notes that Ahaz did not trust God's word and instead made an alliance with Assyria, leading to judgment for Judah. The speaker connects Ahaz's lack of trust to personal struggles with insecurity and belonging, arguing that God's word can be absolutely trusted because of Emmanuel, "God with us." This presence of God, from creation through the tabernacle, the temple, Jesus's first coming, and the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers, is a "game changer." The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to remember God's presence in all circumstances, to memorize Isaiah 7:14, and to engage with the church community, which serves as a physical representation of God's presence.https://www.youtube.com/embed/5hKRhMhG2Vg5098https://my.truevi.com/watch/ZJIY7z7_B0M2021-12-13T03:51:18.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/ZJIY7z7_B0M/hqdefault.jpgGod's Righteousness Through JesusThis message explores the gift of God's righteousness through Jesus, drawing on Psalm 32:1-2 and Isaiah 11:1-10. The speaker defines God's righteousness as always acting in accordance with what is right, with God himself as the standard, and notes that this righteousness requires justice and punishment for sin. The good news of Christmas is that God's righteousness is given to us, making us right with God through Jesus' work on the cross. The sermon emphasizes that nothing we do can make us more righteous; Jesus' work alone makes us righteous. Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah, the promised one, would be our righteousness, coming from the "stump of Jesse" (Isaiah 11:1). This Messiah would be filled with the Spirit of the Lord, wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord, delighting in doing God's will. This promise, also found in Isaiah 9, speaks of a child born whose government and peace will have no end, establishing justice and righteousness forever. The speaker explains that Jesus judges not by sight or hearing, but from his core attributes of faithfulness and righteousness, which are like a belt holding up his deity (Isaiah 11:5). Jesus is the righteousness promised and delivered, and his righteousness was "exacted" on the cross. Citing 2 Corinthians 5, the speaker states that God made Jesus, who knew no sin, to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God. The message concludes by encouraging listeners to live in the "stream of God's righteousness," avoiding the extremes of presuming on forgiveness or being unable to forgive oneself, and to receive this free gift.https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZJIY7z7_B0M5104https://my.truevi.com/watch/9YbNOOi_O-w2021-12-27T03:55:39.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/9YbNOOi_O-w/hqdefault.jpgUnto Us: A Response of GratitudeThis teaching concludes the "Unto Us" series, focusing on our response to God's gifts of presence, peace, righteousness, and life, all pointing to Jesus as our hope. The speaker emphasizes gratitude, drawing from Isaiah chapter 12, which speaks of a future day when God's people will give thanks. This gratitude is expressed both personally and communally, as described in verses 1-2 and 4-6 of Isaiah 12. The sermon addresses why expressing gratitude can be difficult, suggesting that a self-reliant culture can make saying "thank you" feel like an obligation. It then references Luke chapter 17, where Jesus heals ten lepers, but only one, a Samaritan, returns to give thanks. The speaker connects this to our own experience of receiving the "incredible precious gift" of God's righteousness instead of wrath, as mentioned in Romans chapter 5 and 1 Thessalonians chapter 5. He challenges the idea that God is angry or disappointed with us, suggesting this often stems from earthly father figures, and highlights that God is a perfect Father, like the father in the prodigal son story from Luke 15. The teaching encourages a response of thankfulness that overcomes fear, as stated in Isaiah 12:2: "Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation." This gratitude should be declared to others, making known God's deeds among the peoples, as exemplified by a brother named Jerry Watkins. The sermon concludes with a call to personal prayer and communal worship, fulfilling the prophet's words in Isaiah 12:6, "For great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel."https://www.youtube.com/embed/9YbNOOi_O-w5139https://my.truevi.com/watch/8_TK-7j9PDA2022-01-10T04:32:29.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/8_TK-7j9PDA/hqdefault.jpgWe Is Greater Than Me: Hebrews 10:19-25This sermon begins a new series called "We is Greater Than Me," focusing on following Jesus together as a church family. The speaker, Mark, shares the church's mission and vision: "Life is best and best lived when rooted in a gospel-centered community." He illustrates this with a story of a friend who, despite personal pain, wholeheartedly served others, inspiring him to move beyond self-absorption. The core message is that "life is best lived following Jesus with others." The teaching centers on Hebrews 10:19-25. The speaker explains that "therefore" in verse 19 refers to Christ's "once for all" sacrifice, which perfected believers for all time (Hebrews 10:14). Because of this, believers have confidence to enter God's presence (v.19) and have Jesus as an advocate interceding on their behalf (v.11-12). This truth leads to a call for engagement and response, emphasizing that the best life is actively engaged with others. The speaker outlines three directives from the passage: "Let us draw near to God" (v.22) with a true heart, meaning daily repenting and rejoicing; "Let us hold to the confession of our hope without wavering" (v.23), believing Jesus even when life is hard, as exemplified by figures like Noah, Abraham, Sarah, and Moses; and "Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together" (v.24-25). He stresses that building these relationships requires intentional effort and encourages participation in gospel-centered communities, such as the church's groups, to foster deeper connection and mutual encouragement.https://www.youtube.com/embed/8_TK-7j9PDA5093https://my.truevi.com/watch/KarbvINzPWE2022-01-17T03:58:21.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/KarbvINzPWE/hqdefault.jpgWe Is Greater Than Me: Communal Prayer & WorshipThis teaching continues the "We is Greater Than Me" series, focusing on the spiritual practice of pursuing God together through prayer and worship. The speaker emphasizes that while personal faith is important, it is "more than personal" and that God's story, from Abram in Genesis to the present, involves His people following Him together. The sermon centers on Matthew chapter 6, specifically Jesus' teaching on prayer within the Sermon on the Mount. The speaker highlights that Jesus' model prayer, often called the Lord's Prayer, is a "group prayer" and a "model for what it looks like to pray together," not just a set of empty words. He explains that the "you" in the prayer should be understood as "you all," indicating a communal aspect. The speaker connects each stanza of the Lord's Prayer to the "person and work of Jesus," stating that it is "only through Jesus" that God is our Father, that we enter His kingdom, that Jesus is the "bread of life," and that we receive forgiveness. He clarifies that the forgiveness mentioned in the prayer refers to "relational kind of forgiveness," not eternal forgiveness, and that withholding forgiveness from others leads to "relational disconnection from God." The speaker defines worship as "our response to glorify God" and "the activity of glorifying God in his presence with our voices and hearts." He argues that prayer and worship are "interconnected" and that "true prayer... begins in worship." He challenges the audience to consider "what did I give to it" rather than "what did I get out of it" when engaging in worship. The sermon concludes by stating that the ultimate goal of the church is to be "worshipers of the true living God," quoting John Piper's statement that "missions is not the ultimate goal of the church, worship is. Missions exist because worship doesn't." He encourages listeners to "time block" spiritual practices and to use a model for prayer: "worship into God changed me forgive so I can follow."https://www.youtube.com/embed/KarbvINzPWE5093https://my.truevi.com/watch/vkFDp5JgzaU2022-01-24T03:52:43.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/vkFDp5JgzaU/hqdefault.jpgWe Is Greater Than Me: Romans 12This sermon, part of the "We is Greater Than Me" series, continues to explore the vision for Two Rivers Church to see its nine-county region "saturated with the good news of Jesus." The speaker begins by reading Psalm 67, emphasizing the desire for God's way and saving power to be known among all nations. He then discusses the human desire for change, referencing the self-help industry and the church's vision for "gospel-centered community" where people are "actively pursuing God, experiencing the life transforming power of the Holy Spirit, deepening our love for Jesus and for one another and ensuring the gospel is made real to our neighbors in tangible ways." This vision aims for each area of the nine-county region to be impacted by the "transforming presence of Jesus" through "at least one gospel-centered initiative" by 2032. The core of the message focuses on Romans chapter 12, particularly verses 9-21, which describe what a life "impacted by the transforming presence of Jesus" looks like. The speaker acknowledges that this passage, which he refers to as "marks of the true Christian," can seem impossible to achieve, leading to feelings of inadequacy. He clarifies that this is not a "checklist" but a "picture of what it looks like to look like Jesus." Transformation, he argues, is the "result of a life lived worshiping Jesus," which involves God revealing who He is and our response in worship, not just on weekends but daily. Drawing from Romans 12:1-2, the speaker emphasizes that "transformation begins with a choice" to "present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God," which is "your spiritual worship." This involves a daily decision to "climb up on the altar and exchange my life for the life of Christ" and to be "transformed by the renewal of your mind." He encourages listeners to read the entire book of Romans to understand their "identity in Christ" and what God says about them. The sermon concludes with three reminders from Romans 12: "love people," "have confidence in Jesus," and "https://www.youtube.com/embed/vkFDp5JgzaU5092https://my.truevi.com/watch/Z0184zezVys2022-01-31T03:51:57.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Z0184zezVys/hqdefault.jpgWe Is Greater Than Me: Making the Gospel RealThis message concludes the "We is Greater Than Me" series, focusing on the need to make the gospel real in our lives and the lives of others. The speaker begins with Psalm 121, emphasizing that help comes from the Lord. The main text for the message is 2 Corinthians chapter 5, verse 11 through chapter 6, verses 1 and 2. The big idea is that our new life in Christ compels us to make the gospel real. Paul's message to the church in Corinth, and to the listeners, is that the time for new life and salvation is today. The speaker shares that the Evangelical Free Church of America, of which they are a part, reported over 23,000 people moving from death to life last year. The speaker discusses the church's vision to see their nine-county region, with over one million people, impacted by the transforming presence of Jesus by 2032. He acknowledges that this vision seems impossible but states that "nothing's impossible with God." He uses the analogy of hiking Mount LeConte to illustrate that the hardest part is often deciding to start and finding a place to begin. The speaker emphasizes that this work is not done alone, as other churches and individuals are also committed to spreading the gospel. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 5:11-15, the speaker explains that believers have been given life so they can give it to others. He highlights Paul's statement, "knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade others," and that the love of Christ controls believers, compelling them to share the good news. He references Luke chapter 19, where Jesus states that if his disciples were silent, the stones would cry out. The message continues with 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, stating that believers are new creations in Christ, no longer living for themselves but for Him. This new identity means they are now engaged in God's work and mission, serving as ambassadors for Christ with a ministry and message of reconciliation. The speaker also references Titus chapter 3 and Ephesians, emphasizing that believers are created for good works. He concludes by urghttps://www.youtube.com/embed/Z0184zezVys5094https://my.truevi.com/watch/Xe4CUbWGQWs2022-02-07T03:51:16.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Xe4CUbWGQWs/hqdefault.jpgIn the Beginning: God's Story (Genesis 1)This teaching begins a new series in the book of Genesis, focusing on the opening chapter as the prologue to God's story. The speaker emphasizes that God formed everything to reveal who He is, citing Colossians 1:16-17, which states that "by him all things were created in heaven and on earth... all things were created through him and for him and he is before all things and in him all things hold together." The sermon argues that Genesis is a foundational book for understanding God and that without its first three chapters, the rest of scripture, including the sacrifice of Jesus, would not make sense. The speaker addresses the common tendency to reduce the creation account to a debate about "how" God created the world, suggesting this reflects a cultural bias. Instead, the focus should be on "what" God is communicating and "why" the world was created. He asserts that all scripture is Christian scripture, viewing the Old Testament through the lens of the New Testament and the gospel. The teaching states that God created the world "out of nothing," referencing Hebrews, and that the "Word" through whom creation occurred is Jesus, as described in John 1:1-3. The sermon highlights that God's story begins with God at the center, not humanity. It challenges the idea that the Genesis creation account is primarily about the scientific debate between creation and evolution, arguing that science cannot answer the "why" of creation. The speaker then walks through Genesis 1, noting patterns like "and God said," "and God made," "and it was so," and "God saw that it was good." He explains that on day one, God created time; on day two, weather; on day three, land and vegetation; on day four, the sun, moon, and stars to measure time; on day five, birds and fish; and on day six, people in His image, male and female, to reflect Him in the world. The speaker discusses the relevance of Genesis 1 to contemporary cultural topics like gender identity, stating that only God is without gender and that people reflecting God's image togethhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/Xe4CUbWGQWs5098https://my.truevi.com/watch/PpHgqX5MN-42022-02-14T03:53:40.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/PpHgqX5MN-4/hqdefault.jpgGenesis 2: Created for God's WorkThis teaching continues a series in Genesis, focusing on Genesis chapter 2. The speaker emphasizes that humans were made by Jesus and for Jesus, drawing on Paul's letter to the church in Colossae. He explains that Genesis is a theology book, not a science textbook, and that understanding its ancient context is crucial. The speaker highlights that God is the center of God's story, and the question for us is, "What's my part?" The sermon explores Genesis 2:4-25, detailing the creation of man from dust and the planting of the Garden of Eden. The speaker notes that the term "Lord God" (Yahweh) is introduced, signifying God's personal covenant name. He describes Eden as the first dwelling place of God, a sacred space where the first man was placed to "work it and to keep it" (Genesis 2:15). This work is presented as God's design, not a consequence of sin. The speaker also discusses the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, which represent life and wisdom that only God can give. The teaching then addresses the creation of woman, noting that God declared it "not good that the man should be alone" (Genesis 2:18). The speaker reinterprets the word "helper" as a "teammate" or "counterpart," emphasizing that men and women were created to join God in His work. He connects this to Paul's words in Ephesians, stating that we are God's "workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand" (Ephesians). The sermon concludes by asserting that through the indwelling Holy Spirit, "Eden is restored in us," and that all areas of our lives can become "sacred space" as we live out the purposes God created us for.https://www.youtube.com/embed/PpHgqX5MN-45093https://my.truevi.com/watch/u6P6_djt1xg2022-02-21T03:52:57.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/u6P6_djt1xg/hqdefault.jpgIn The Beginning: Independence From GodThis sermon, part of the "In the Beginning" series, focuses on Genesis 3 and the concept that humanity was created to be dependent on God. The speaker contrasts this with our cultural love for independence, arguing that independence from God is not freedom but sin. He highlights the serpent's crafty questioning of God's word in Genesis 3:1-5, Eve's incorrect response, and the subsequent lie that led to Adam and Eve's disobedience. The speaker emphasizes that Adam was present during the conversation with the serpent (Genesis 3:6) and that the serpent's temptation involved doubting God's goodness and contradicting His specific instructions from Genesis 2:16. He explains that the "right kind of lie can sound really good," leading to a desire for independence from God's wisdom, similar to how people rationalize texting while driving. The tree of the knowledge of Good and Evil is discussed as representing wisdom and understanding meant for a future time, not an immediate one, drawing a parallel to a child driving a car or withholding information from children until they are older. The consequences of Adam and Eve's sin are explored, including their hiding from God (Genesis 3:8-10), the curse on the serpent (Genesis 3:14-15), and the new realities of pain in childbearing (Genesis 3:16) and cursed ground for Adam (Genesis 3:17-19). The sermon concludes by noting that independence from God leads to death and removal from His presence, as seen in their expulsion from the Garden of Eden and the Tree of Life (Genesis 3:22-24). However, the speaker points to hints of God's greater love, His seeking them out, providing garments of skins (Genesis 3:21), and the promise in Genesis 3:15 of a future conqueror of evil. The sermon encourages listeners to have conversations with God, bring hidden things into the light, and practice retelling God's goodness.https://www.youtube.com/embed/u6P6_djt1xg5093https://my.truevi.com/watch/v4sJyahhTAg2022-02-28T03:53:20.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/v4sJyahhTAg/hqdefault.jpgIn the Beginning: God Desires Your HeartThis sermon, part of a series in Genesis, focuses on God's requirement for our hearts, building on the previous week's teaching that we were created to be dependent upon God. The speaker references Deuteronomy chapter 6, where Jesus quotes the greatest commandment to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and to love your neighbor as yourself. This commandment, known as the Shema, was a daily prayer for good Jews. The message then moves to Genesis chapter 4, introducing Cain and Abel. The speaker emphasizes that God knows our hearts and their motives, citing Proverbs and Jeremiah chapter 12. He explains that God had regard for Abel's offering but not Cain's, not because of the type of offering (produce versus livestock), but because of the heart behind it. The speaker draws a parallel to Luke chapter 21, where Jesus observes a poor widow giving all she had. Cain's anger and subsequent murder of Abel are discussed, with the speaker noting God's warning to Cain in Genesis 4:6-7 about sin crouching at the door. The speaker connects Cain's act to displacement, where anger at God or circumstances is directed at others. He then relates this to Jesus' teaching on anger and murder in Matthew chapter 5, and James' words about the tongue being a deadly poison. The sermon concludes by discussing the consequences of a misaligned heart, as seen in Cain's punishment in Genesis 4:13-16. The speaker stresses that while believers are forgiven the punishment of sin, consequences often remain, serving as a discipline from God to draw hearts back to Him. He encourages listeners to surrender their whole hearts to Jesus and to reflect on areas where they might be holding back.https://www.youtube.com/embed/v4sJyahhTAg5088https://my.truevi.com/watch/LrMYLXLRVkA2022-03-07T03:53:06.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/LrMYLXLRVkA/hqdefault.jpgThe Path of Life: Genesis 4-5This teaching concludes a series on Genesis, focusing on the two paths presented in life: one leading to separation from God (death) and the other to life with God. The speaker references Psalm 16:11, "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore," and Psalm 23, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside quiet waters; he restores my soul." The message emphasizes choosing the path that leads to life, which is through Jesus. The speaker examines Genesis 4:17-26, tracing Cain's lineage and the downward spiral of humanity, exemplified by Lamech in the seventh generation. He notes the emergence of human creativity and invention but cautions that "progress isn't always progress," as seen in the depravity that can arise in cities and human conflict. In contrast, Genesis 4:25-26 introduces Seth's line, where "people began to call upon the name of the Lord," signifying intentional seeking of God through prayer and worship. The teaching then moves to Genesis 5, discussing biblical genealogies as literary types that link God's story, rather than precise historical records for calculating time spans. It highlights Enoch, who "walked with God, and he was not, for God took him," as an example of the ultimate goal: living forever in God's presence. The speaker encourages listeners to choose the path of life daily, referencing Matthew 7's teaching on the narrow gate and Psalm 1, which describes the blessedness of those who delight in the "law of the Lord" (God's loving instruction or word) and the perishing of the wicked. The sermon concludes by urging a commitment to follow Jesus and to daily seek God's path.https://www.youtube.com/embed/LrMYLXLRVkA5093https://my.truevi.com/watch/nnOFauVG1W42022-03-14T02:54:29.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/nnOFauVG1W4/hqdefault.jpgLove Serves: Humility and Spiritual GiftsThis teaching begins a new series called "Love Serves," which will culminate in the church serving the community in April. The speaker emphasizes that serving is an act of worship and a way to make the gospel real in others' lives. He reads from Psalm 147, highlighting that God's delight is in those who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love. The message also includes a time of prayer for the situation in Eastern Europe, specifically Russia and Ukraine, and for church-wide participation in the "Love Serves" weekend. The speaker discusses cultural lies about love, citing an article from Relevant Magazine titled "Seven Lies Culture Tells Us About Love and Romance." He identifies two lies: "love is a feeling" and "true love will solve all of your problems." He contrasts these with a biblical definition of love as "the unconditional choice to sacrificially serve the other," exemplified by Jesus' life. The main passage for the teaching is Romans chapter 12, starting from verse 3, which discusses spiritual gifts. The speaker states that God has given unique gifts to be used in everyday life, both inside and outside the church building, because "you are the church." The message emphasizes that using gifts requires humility, drawing on Romans 12:1-2, which calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices and be transformed by the renewal of their minds. Humility is defined using C.S. Lewis's quote: "Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less." The speaker argues that true humility is agreeing with what God says is true about you, recognizing one's position in relation to God, and avoiding both self-abasement and pride. He cautions against "gift comparing" and "spiritual elitism," stating that all gifts are needed for the body of Christ to function healthily. Using gifts with humility brings unity to the body, and using gifts shows one's faith, as seen in Romans 12:6. The speaker encourages listeners to ask God and trusted individuals what their gifts are, where they can use thttps://www.youtube.com/embed/nnOFauVG1W45089https://my.truevi.com/watch/eC66f9SEN402022-03-21T02:56:26.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/eC66f9SEN40/hqdefault.jpgLove Serves: Encounters With JesusThis sermon, part of the "Love Serves" series, focuses on how encounters with Jesus inspire believers to tell others and to serve. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about meeting Walter Payton to illustrate how people are eager to share exciting encounters. He then transitions to the post-resurrection account in Luke 24, specifically verses 13-35, where two followers of Jesus are on their way to Emmaus and Jesus joins them, though their eyes are kept from recognizing him. The speaker emphasizes that encounters with Jesus are based in truth, as Jesus interprets "all the scriptures" (v. 27), from Moses and all the prophets, to reveal things concerning himself. He argues against detaching Jesus from the Old Testament, stating that the "happy Jesus of the gospels" is not the real Jesus of all of scripture. He explains that today, believers encounter Jesus through scripture and the Holy Spirit, who brings illumination and convicts of sin, leading to new life in Christ. He references John 16:7, where Jesus tells his followers it is to their advantage that he goes away so the Holy Spirit can come. The sermon highlights that these encounters inspire believers to tell others, noting that the two followers in Luke 24 immediately returned to Jerusalem (v. 33) to share their experience, particularly how Jesus was known to them in the breaking of the bread (v. 35). Finally, the speaker connects encounters with Jesus to serving others, citing Titus, and encourages practical steps like attending "Quiet Waters" events, weekly worship, joining groups, and daily engagement with scripture to create space for encountering Jesus. He concludes by urging listeners to share their experiences, even if others think they are "crazy," and to approach life with a "let's go" attitude, ready to tell people about Jesus.https://www.youtube.com/embed/eC66f9SEN405094https://my.truevi.com/watch/PDaI8AcTB9A2022-03-28T02:55:22.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/PDaI8AcTB9A/hqdefault.jpgLove Serves: Witnesses of Christ's ResurrectionThis message continues the "Love Serves" series, focusing on making the gospel real in everyday life. The speaker references Jesus' words to Martha in John, "I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live." The sermon also includes a prayer based on Romans chapter 12, verses 9-13, which calls believers to genuine love, abhorring evil, holding fast to good, showing brotherly affection, outdoing one another in honor, being fervent in spirit, serving the Lord, rejoicing in hope, being patient in tribulation, constant in prayer, contributing to the needs of saints, and showing hospitality. The main text for the sermon is Luke chapter 24, beginning in verse 36. The speaker recounts Jesus appearing to his disciples in Jerusalem after his resurrection, showing them his hands and feet, eating broiled fish, and opening their minds to understand the scriptures. Jesus explains that "it is written that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem." He tells them they are witnesses of these things and instructs them to "stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high." The speaker emphasizes that serving is central to the mission of Christ, mirroring Jesus who "didn't come to be served but to serve" (Matthew chapter 20). Good works create goodwill, which then allows for good news to be shared. The message highlights that Jesus is alive, seated at the right hand of the Father, and this reality empowers believers to proclaim the good news. Repentance is defined as turning from self-worship to the worship of Christ. The church's mission is to proclaim the gospel, calling people to repentance and the forgiveness of sins, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The speaker encourages listeners to serve by identifying the greatest needs around them and using their gifts to meet those needs, both within the church and in their communitieshttps://www.youtube.com/embed/PDaI8AcTB9A5093https://my.truevi.com/watch/3ZBkWTeLcAo2022-04-11T02:52:50.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/3ZBkWTeLcAo/hqdefault.jpgThe Third Day: God's Redemption StoryThis teaching focuses on God's redemption story, which began in Genesis and continues through Revelation, with Jesus as its central figure. The speaker highlights Palm Sunday, referencing John chapter 12 and Psalm 18, and emphasizes that Jesus's resurrection is the most significant event in this story. He explains that Jesus, the Word, was part of creation and initiated the Incarnation, lived an earthly ministry, died, was buried, and rose to life, physically appearing to his disciples. The sermon introduces the concept of "three days" or "the third day" as a recurring theme throughout scripture, signifying when redemption came. Examples include Hosea chapter 6, Abraham and Isaac in Genesis, the Exodus in Exodus chapter 19, Joseph releasing his brothers, and Jonah in the belly of a fish for three days and three nights, which Jesus references in Matthew regarding his own resurrection. The speaker asserts that "we are third day people living God's Redemption story." Drawing from 1 Corinthians chapter 15, verses 1-11, the speaker explains that Paul wrote to the Corinthian church to clarify the truth of the resurrection, emphasizing that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, was buried, and was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures. He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve, to over 500 brothers, to James, and to all the apostles, including Paul. The speaker stresses that the gospel hinges on this third-day reality and that if Christ was not raised, then preaching and faith are in vain. He concludes by encouraging listeners to live as "third day followers" under Jesus's reign and rule, referencing Colossians chapter 3, verses 1-17, which instructs believers to seek things above, put to death earthly desires, and put on compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, and love.https://www.youtube.com/embed/3ZBkWTeLcAo5093https://my.truevi.com/watch/warjh7Ii9Hs2022-04-16T09:41:31.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/warjh7Ii9Hs/hqdefault.jpgGood Friday: The Cost of ForgivenessThis teaching reflects on the meaning of Jesus's sacrifice, focusing on the events leading up to and including his crucifixion. It begins by remembering what Jesus did for us and the cost of forgiveness and redemption, inviting viewers to engage with scripture, worship-based prayer, and communion. The speaker reads from a passage describing Jesus's last meal with his apostles, where he redefined the Passover meal with his body and blood, anticipating his suffering. This passage highlights Jesus's selfless teaching even in the face of his impending betrayal. The speaker then references Paul's account of the Last Supper in 1 Corinthians chapter 11, verse 23, emphasizing Jesus's instruction to "do this in remembrance of me." The message continues by exploring the betrayal of Jesus by Judas, as described in Mark chapter 14, and reflects on the nature of betrayal and our own tendencies to put things above Jesus. It encourages confession and seeking God's help to overcome sin and elevate Jesus in our lives. The teaching further examines Peter's denial of Jesus, found in Luke 22, and connects it to feelings of abandonment. It asserts that Jesus faced ultimate abandonment so that we would never have to, and that nothing can separate us from God's love, referencing Paul's words about this truth. The speaker then reads from Matthew, describing the darkness over the land and Jesus's cry, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" The sermon concludes by encouraging prayer for those who do not yet know Jesus, reminding us that "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord" will be saved, and that God is "patient towards you, not wishing that any should perish but that all should reach repentance."https://www.youtube.com/embed/warjh7Ii9Hs4492https://my.truevi.com/watch/ni21H4XR_I42022-04-18T04:27:09.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/ni21H4XR_I4/hqdefault.jpgEaster: The Third Day and Resurrection HopeThis Easter message from Two Rivers Church celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, emphasizing that "Jesus is alive." The speaker, Dave, introduces a short series called "Three Days," exploring the theme throughout scripture that the third day is when redemption comes, as seen with Abraham, the children of Israel, Joseph, Hosea, Jonah, and ultimately Jesus. The resurrection of Jesus is presented as the distinctive truth of Christianity, giving hope and enabling believers to live differently. The teaching then turns to 1 Corinthians 15, where Paul describes what it means to live as if Jesus is alive. The speaker explains that the Corinthians held a Greek belief that the body was corrupt and sinful, seeking a disembodied spiritual existence. Paul counters this by arguing for the physical resurrection of Jesus and future resurrection for believers. The message highlights 1 Corinthians 15:57-58, "But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain." The sermon encourages believers to persevere in adversity, drawing on Ignatius's letter to Polycarp, which advises standing firm "like an anvil being struck with a hammer." It also discusses persevering in day-to-day life, emphasizing that belief in the New Testament is tied to action. The speaker uses the analogy of marriage to explain how understanding of resurrection life grows over time. The message concludes with practical next steps: making the choice to trust Jesus, remembering the truth of resurrection when adversity arises, and investing in people in daily interactions.https://www.youtube.com/embed/ni21H4XR_I45143https://my.truevi.com/watch/0NEOrlFHDIc2022-04-25T02:53:14.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/0NEOrlFHDIc/hqdefault.jpgGod Is Better Than I Think He IsThis sermon begins a new series in the Book of Genesis, picking up after the first five chapters. The speaker emphasizes that Genesis is God's story, and the main character is God. He encourages listeners to approach the text with the question, "What does this reveal to me about God?" and to read it as followers of Jesus, avoiding an "Old Covenant" mindset that suggests God is "out to get you if you sin." The core message for the week is "God is better than I think he is." The sermon then delves into Genesis chapter 6, acknowledging that it's a difficult text to interpret. The speaker discusses the "sons of God," "daughters of men," and "Nephilim," presenting three theories about their identities: the godly line of Seth intermarrying with the ungodly line of Cain, angels intermarrying with human women, or kings practicing the "right of the first night." He advises against "chasing the obscure" and instead focusing on what is clear: the intermarriage led to God's judgment, restricting the human lifespan to 120 years, and humanity's wickedness grew, with "every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." Three observations about God are made: God is active in the world he created, God judges sin, and God is already pursuing redemption. Sin is defined as "actions by which humans rebel against God, missing his purpose for their lives," and is described as a "downward spiral" that impacts all of society. The speaker warns against the subtle threat of believing we can exist without God, and how culture, through things like sitcoms, can dull our senses to sin, eventually making "wrong... right." He contrasts this with the gospel message, stating that Jesus has received the punishment for sin, and our role is to be "good news proclaimers." The sermon concludes by referencing Luke 18, where Jesus tells a parable about a Pharisee and a tax collector, and Paul's words in Ephesians about being "dead in the trespasses and sins" and in 2 Corinthians about being a "new creation" in Christ. The call to ahttps://www.youtube.com/embed/0NEOrlFHDIc5098https://my.truevi.com/watch/aZD3FE7cc5A2022-05-02T02:54:06.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/aZD3FE7cc5A/hqdefault.jpgOut of the Chaos: God's Judgment Creates New BeginningsThis message continues the "Out of the Chaos" series, focusing on God establishing the first covenant with humanity. The speaker examines the story of Noah and the flood, challenging common perceptions of it as a "cute story" and instead presenting it as a story of God's judgment on ever-increasing sin. He contrasts the biblical account with other ancient Near Eastern flood narratives, highlighting the biblical God's righteous judgment versus other gods' frustration. The big idea is that "God's judgment creates new beginnings," a pattern seen throughout scripture. The speaker discusses a humanistic worldview, where individuals are the center of their own story, versus a gospel worldview, where God is the center and invites humanity into His story. He argues that God does not need to justify Himself to us. Examining Genesis 6:9-14, the speaker explains that sin grieves God and demands judgment, citing Romans 3:23 ("all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God") and Romans 6:23 ("the wages of sin is death"). He emphasizes that God intercedes with grace, as seen in His instructions to Noah to build the ark. Noah's obedience to God's commands in Genesis 6:22 and Genesis 7:5 is highlighted as the proper response to God's intercession. The speaker notes the difficulty of obedience in a culture that often opposes biblical truth. He then moves to Genesis 8, where "God remembered Noah," signifying God's action to recede the waters and bring about new life, symbolized by the dove returning with an olive branch. Jesus, in Luke chapter 17, refers to the flood as a picture of a final judgment to come. The message concludes by presenting Jesus as God's ultimate intercession, taking the judgment for sin on the cross, and offering new life through His resurrection, inviting listeners to believe and submit their lives to Him.https://www.youtube.com/embed/aZD3FE7cc5A5096https://my.truevi.com/watch/DEqlcMDIEu82022-05-23T02:53:53.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/DEqlcMDIEu8/hqdefault.jpgOut of the Chaos: God's Blessing Through AbramThis sermon, titled "Bless," continues a series in Genesis called "Out of the Chaos." The speaker begins by discussing the common, often superficial, use of the word "bless" today, contrasting it with its biblical meaning. He emphasizes that the scriptures are not a moralistic guide but reveal who God is and call for a response. The series has highlighted that God is better than we think, that His judgment brings new beginnings, and that He is fully committed and "far more other" than we perceive. This week's message focuses on God's intention for human happiness to be found in relationship with Him, clarifying that "happiness" and "joy" are not distinct concepts in the biblical languages or English. The sermon then delves into Genesis 11:27-12:9, focusing on God's call to Abram. The speaker notes that the story shifts from covering thousands of years in the first 11 chapters to slowing down with Abram's narrative. God chooses Abram not because of any special quality, but simply because "God chose Abram" for His purposes. The major theme emerging is that God's people are meant to be a people of blessing. The speaker defines biblical blessing as being about relationship, citing the Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary, and explains that when humans "bless God," it is an act of worship and praise, a response to His revelation. When humans "bless people," it means desiring for them to experience God's favor and the fullness of relationship with Him, often expressed through the Hebrew word "shalom," which signifies completeness and well-being beyond just the absence of conflict. The speaker references a video from The Bible Project to further explain the concepts of blessing and curse. The video describes blessing as God sharing His life-producing ability and humans being appointed as His representatives to care for creation. The curse is presented not as a magic spell, but as God handing people over to the consequences of seeking blessing on their own terms, leading to scarcity, isolation, and death. God's plan to reversehttps://www.youtube.com/embed/DEqlcMDIEu85119https://my.truevi.com/watch/HqNLIBLMcVM2022-05-30T02:52:59.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/HqNLIBLMcVM/hqdefault.jpgOut of the Chaos: God's Sovereignty in Genesis 12This message concludes the "Out of the Chaos" series, shifting to God setting apart a people for His purpose. The speaker notes that Abraham and Sarah have a rocky start, and sometimes faith falters when things look different than expected. The message emphasizes that God desires pursuit over perfection, drawing on Hebrews 11, which states that without faith it is impossible to please God, and that whoever draws near to God must believe He exists and rewards those who seek Him. The teaching focuses on Genesis 12:1-3, where God calls Abram to leave his country and kindred to a land God will show him, promising to make him a great people, bless him, make his name great so he will be a blessing, and bless those who bless him while cursing those who dishonor him, so that all families of the earth will be blessed through him. The speaker then examines Genesis 12:10-20, where Abram goes to Egypt during a famine and instructs Sarai to say she is his sister, leading to her being taken into Pharaoh's house and Pharaoh being afflicted with plagues. The speaker highlights that Abraham, a "founder of faith," had a rocky start, demonstrating that "the struggle is real." A key principle discussed is that humans cannot thwart God's plans, even when they try to "jack up" God's plan. The speaker defines God's sovereignty as His exercise of power over creation, human history, and redemption. While God's plans cannot be thwarted, human choices have ripple effects, as seen with Sarah and Pharaoh. However, God is bigger than human missteps, and people fail but God is faithful, bringing redemption. The message encourages listeners to engage with scripture, ask God how they might be thwarting His plan, and commit to building their faith this summer.https://www.youtube.com/embed/HqNLIBLMcVM5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/qvcNn-jf_lo2022-06-06T02:53:07.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/qvcNn-jf_lo/hqdefault.jpgBuilding Faith: The Faith LoopThis sermon series, "Building Faith," explores how faith develops over time, drawing from the book of Genesis. The speaker notes that even those God sets apart stumble, which should be encouraging. He defines faith using Hebrews 11:1 as "the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen," emphasizing that faith is taking God at his word. The speaker highlights that God initiates faith, referencing Isaiah chapter 6 and Revelation 4, where creatures around God's throne say "holy, holy, holy." He illustrates this with his own experience of coming to faith at age 10, attributing it to God revealing himself through his parents, church, and camp. The sermon then turns to Genesis chapter 15, focusing on Abram's interaction with God. The "faith loop" is introduced, starting with God revealing his character, as seen in Genesis 15:1 and 15:7. The second part of the loop is a season of questioning, exemplified by Abram's questions in Genesis 15 about having an heir and how he would possess the land. The speaker argues that questions do not show a lack of faith, but rather can grow faith, citing Mary's question to the angel. The third part of the loop is God bringing assurance, as God shows Abram the stars in Genesis 15:5 and ratifies his covenant through a culturally understood ceremony involving cut animals, a smoking firepot, and a flaming torch. The speaker connects this assurance to the Holy Spirit, referencing Ephesians chapter 1 verses 13 and 14, which describes the Holy Spirit as a "guarantee of our inheritance." He concludes that faith is built through experience, even through struggles, as seen in Abram's journey from Genesis chapter 12 to Genesis chapter 22, and in James chapter 1 verses 2 and 3. The sermon encourages listeners to make the covenant personal through Jesus and to ask God where they are questioning him, reading Genesis chapter 15 through Genesis chapter 18 verse 21 this week. The sermon concludes with communion, emphasizing the new covenant in Jesus' blood.https://www.youtube.com/embed/qvcNn-jf_lo5095https://my.truevi.com/watch/SCbUuGLCZFw2022-06-13T02:54:02.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/SCbUuGLCZFw/hqdefault.jpgBuilding Faith: Living Life with JesusThis teaching is week two of the "Building Faith" series, focusing on the idea that faith is born out of experience over time and is about learning to live life with Jesus. The speaker references Hebrews chapter 11, stating that "without faith it's impossible to please him for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him." Faith is described as an interactive concept, more complex than just trust, requiring interaction between God and a person, born from scripture and experience. The Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary is quoted, defining faith as "the trustful human response to God's self-revelation via his words and his actions." The sermon then moves to Genesis chapter 16, discussing Abram, Sarai, and Hagar. Sarai, unable to have children, gives Hagar to Abram, a common cultural practice at the time. When Hagar conceives, she shows contempt for Sarai, who then deals harshly with Hagar, causing her to flee. The speaker emphasizes that "God can take longer than I think he should" and distinguishes between passively waiting and actively waiting on God. Two foundational daily life questions for followers of Christ are introduced: "Where are you asking me to wait, God?" and "Where are you calling me to act?" The angel of the Lord finds Hagar and instructs her to return to Sarai and submit to her, promising to multiply her offspring and that she will bear a son named Ishmael. This illustrates that sometimes faith requires acting, even when it means returning to difficult circumstances. The speaker cautions against the cultural norm of cutting out all "toxic" people, suggesting that followers of Christ need to be in the world. The teaching concludes by encouraging listeners to ask these two questions daily in all areas of life, emphasizing that learning to discern God's will comes through experience, living life with Jesus. The birth of Isaac in Genesis chapter 21, 13 years later, is mentioned as a supernatural act of God fulfilling His promise.https://www.youtube.com/embed/SCbUuGLCZFw5078https://my.truevi.com/watch/vHDTX0lOhak2022-06-20T02:57:28.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/vHDTX0lOhak/hqdefault.jpgBuilding Faith: Abraham's Trust in God's CharacterThis sermon continues the "Building Faith" series, focusing on Abraham as the father of our faith, as Paul refers to him in Romans. The speaker emphasizes that faith is based on God's trustworthy character, not just His promises. Drawing from Genesis chapter 22, the message unpacks the story of Abraham's test to sacrifice Isaac, highlighting Abraham's shift from trusting God's promises to trusting God's character. The speaker notes Abraham's repeated response of "here I am" as a sign of attentiveness and availability to God. The sermon explains that God grows faith through testing, not to reveal what we are not, but to reveal who He is. It references Ephesians chapter 2 verse 8, stating that faith is a gift of God, not a result of works. The speaker also cites 1 Peter, which discusses the testing of faith as more precious than gold, resulting in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. The New Testament, specifically Hebrews chapter 11, is used to provide insight into Abraham's faith, noting that he believed God was able to raise Isaac from the dead. The message concludes by encouraging listeners to fix their eyes on Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, as mentioned in Hebrews. It stresses the importance of knowing God experientially, not just intellectually, and trusting His steadfast character in all circumstances. The speaker challenges the audience to live in a way that demonstrates their knowledge of Jesus to others, emphasizing that God can be trusted because He does what He promises.https://www.youtube.com/embed/vHDTX0lOhak5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/vw28KfjKRIc2022-06-27T03:20:21.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/vw28KfjKRIc/hqdefault.jpgTwo Rivers Church: 2022 Vision WeekendThis vision weekend message from Two Rivers Church begins with worship, including a baptism, and then moves into an annual business meeting where a budget of $4.4 million and two elder candidates, Adam Kuhn and Elliot Barnett, are approved by member vote. The speakers emphasize that voting and giving are acts of worship. The core of the message focuses on the church's vision for the next 10 years, by 2032: to see each area of their nine-county region, with over one million people, impacted by the transforming presence of Jesus through at least one gospel initiative. They define the gospel as "Jesus saves and Jesus transforms," leading to people being transformed in the image of Christ. Drawing from Colossians 1:15-20, the speakers highlight Christ's preeminence and centrality in all things, emphasizing that a gospel-centered life is about both coming to faith and growing in faith. A testimony from Dale illustrates living on mission, sharing the gospel with a man named Tim who was contemplating suicide. The message encourages relational connection to Jesus and each other, serving within the church family, and giving generously. Specific needs for volunteers are outlined for worship, student ministries (middle school and high school), and kids ministry. The church also plans three "All In Prayer Nights" and three "Serve Saturdays" to engage the vision. A new partnership with Seed Knox, an organization that provides pathways out of poverty for young adults through green jobs, is introduced, made possible by a property donation inspired by the church's "Love Gives" initiative. The sermon concludes with an invitation to say "yes" to God's call to serve and participate in the church's mission, referencing Colossians 2:6-7.https://www.youtube.com/embed/vw28KfjKRIc5297https://my.truevi.com/watch/_hWYqoHvF1c2022-07-18T02:54:40.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/_hWYqoHvF1c/hqdefault.jpgBuilding Faith Through Disappointment: Jacob's StoryThis message continues the "Building Faith" series, exploring how faith is built when life disappoints us. The speaker emphasizes that God's faithfulness is based on His character, not our performance. Drawing from Psalm 27, the teaching encourages seeking God's face, and Ephesians 3:17-21 is read, highlighting Christ dwelling in hearts through faith and knowing His love that surpasses knowledge. The sermon addresses worshipping God through disappointment, trusting that God is able to provide and care for us in those moments. The speaker delves into the story of Jacob from the Book of Genesis, specifically Genesis 29, 30, and 31. Jacob, known as a swindler, is himself swindled by Laban, marrying Leah instead of Rachel after working seven years. This disappointment leads to a complex family situation with two wives, two concubines, and many children. The speaker notes that God sees Leah in her disappointment and opens her womb, and later remembers Rachel and opens her womb, leading to the birth of Joseph. The message highlights that God uses all of life's messes and disappointments to shape faith, as seen in Jacob's transformation. Examples from the Apostle Peter and James are cited, stating that the testing of faith produces steadfastness. The speaker shares a personal story about his daughter Maddie's disabilities and how God has shaped their family through those disappointments. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that God does not give up on His plan, even when individuals try to do things their own way, and that God's grace and mercy are at work to bless us and build our faith. Viewers are encouraged to read Genesis 26-35, engage with provided questions, and begin the process of repenting from holding disappointments against God.https://www.youtube.com/embed/_hWYqoHvF1c5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/Hek2SrDIbhI2022-08-01T02:52:36.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Hek2SrDIbhI/hqdefault.jpgBuilding Faith: God Meant It for GoodThis sermon concludes the "Building Faith" series through Genesis, focusing on how faith is built when trusting God becomes the only option. The speaker references Psalm 148, where the psalmist cries out to the Lord, asking to hear of His steadfast love and to be shown the way to go. The main idea is that faith is built over time as we embrace God's mastery over His creation, a theme seen from Genesis chapter 1 through chapter 50. The message centers on Joseph's story, particularly Genesis 50:15-21, where Joseph tells his brothers, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good." The speaker highlights Joseph's ability to fixate on God despite suffering, including being sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned. He emphasizes that recognizing God knows what He's doing, as the Creator, is the first step. This involves surrendering to the mystery of God's ways, even when circumstances are difficult, drawing on Isaiah's words that God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a difficult life transition, illustrating how God's purpose became clear years later. He stresses that Joseph's faith was built through experiencing God's presence and steadfast love, as noted in Genesis 39:21, "the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love." The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to fixate on who God is, rather than on those who have caused pain, and to pray three times a day, "Jesus, Master, because of your steadfast love, I trust you."https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hek2SrDIbhI5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/UINl5qoUwwQ2022-08-15T15:46:39.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/UINl5qoUwwQ/hqdefault.jpgLove Jesus Most: Deuteronomy 6:4-9This teaching, part of a series called "Listen: Ancient Words for Modern Families," focuses on the Shema, a foundational Jewish prayer. The speaker, Mark, emphasizes that as followers of Jesus, we are called to learn to love Jesus most. He defines love, using the Hebrew word "ahava," as an action tied to loyalty and commitment, not just emotion, and references Deuteronomy chapter 6, verses 4 through 9, where Moses gives the "DTR talk" (define the relationship) to the people of God. Mark explains that loving Jesus most is an expectation, not just an obvious truth, and that Jesus himself, 1500 years later, quotes the Shema when asked about the greatest commandment. He highlights that Jesus went "all in" for us and expects an "all-in" love in return. The speaker also addresses the tension between a personal relationship with God and loving others, referencing Matthew 22 where Jesus connects loving God with loving your neighbor as yourself. He argues that loving others is a demonstration of our love for God, not a distraction. The sermon concludes by stressing that loving Jesus most means becoming a student of Jesus through His Word, making it a non-negotiable priority. Mark encourages listeners to commit to reading and studying the scriptures, offering the "Live It Out" section in the bulletin as a resource. He challenges everyone to ask themselves, "Do I love Jesus most?" and suggests praying this question three times a day, at 9 AM, 12 PM, and 3 PM, to align their lives with this commitment. He also references 1 John chapter 4, emphasizing that "we love because God first loved us."https://www.youtube.com/embed/UINl5qoUwwQ5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/jkoAuOrDyxY2022-08-18T12:53:02.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/jkoAuOrDyxY/hqdefault.jpgLoving God with Heart, Soul, and StrengthThis session at "The Well" focuses on God's love and how believers should respond to it. The worship team leads songs like "The Battle Belongs to You" and "Good Good Father." A pastor reads from Psalm 24, describing the Lord's ownership of the earth and who may ascend to His holy mountain. Another pastor reads from 1 Corinthians 13, emphasizing that love is the foundation for spiritual gifts and describing what unconditional love looks like, including patience, kindness, and perseverance. He prays for God's love to be stirred in hearts. Later, Psalm 103 is read, highlighting God's compassion, graciousness, slowness to anger, and abounding love, noting that He does not treat us as our sins deserve. A participant shares Ephesians 3:14-21, praying for strength through the Spirit and for believers to grasp the depth of Christ's love. The teaching then shifts to Deuteronomy 6:4-9, the Shema, as the proper response to God's love: to love the Lord with all heart, soul, and strength. Speakers share personal reflections on learning to love God and how even small, mundane acts done in faith can be part of loving Him. The session concludes with worship and prayer for continued revelation of God's love and the ability to love Him and others in return.https://www.youtube.com/embed/jkoAuOrDyxY7498https://my.truevi.com/watch/t7E2B5cG94g2022-08-22T02:51:33.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/t7E2B5cG94g/hqdefault.jpgThe Shema: Living a Life of Loyalty to GodThis teaching explores the Shema, a foundational prayer in the Jewish faith recited twice daily as an oath of loyalty to God. The speaker emphasizes that following Jesus is a life to be lived, not just a set of rules or a checklist, and that Jesus wants to be part of our daily lives in every area. Psalm 145:4 is cited, stating that one generation shall commend God's works to another. The series is based on the concept of the Hebrew word "shema," which means to hear, listen, and obey. The speaker notes that the word "commandment" in scripture refers to God's loving instruction. The teaching highlights three principles for passing along faith to the next generation. First, following Jesus requires embracing exclusivity, as Jesus states in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Second, following Jesus means learning to love Jesus most, which is described as loyalty and allegiance, not just emotion. This involves loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Third, following Jesus is a life to be lived, integrating him into every aspect of life, including work, family, sports, and friendships. The speaker connects these principles to Jesus' interaction with an expert of the law in Luke chapter 10, verses 25-28, where Jesus affirms that the greatest commandments are to love God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind, and to love your neighbor as yourself. The teaching also references Deuteronomy chapter 6, verse 5, and Leviticus 19:18. The speaker encourages keeping faith simple by using everyday things for spiritual conversations, knowing God's word beyond simple stories, and consistently talking about truth to persevere in a world that pushes back against it. Matthew chapter 5 through 7, the Sermon on the Mount, is suggested as a resource for these conversations. The speaker also discusses Matthew chapter 6 regarding storing up treasures in heaven. The teaching concludes by emphasizing that applying truth leads to depth, that passing on fhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/t7E2B5cG94g5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/qK2MlIbbaqk2022-08-25T12:53:17.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/qK2MlIbbaqk/hqdefault.jpgInvading Every Part of MeThis teaching focuses on alignment with God's purpose and plan, both individually and corporately. The speaker encourages listeners to pray a specific prayer daily: "Jesus, would you come invade every part of me for now, for today, and for always." This prayer is presented as a life-changing prayer that God will continue to answer, aligning with His will. The message draws from Matthew 6:25-34, which instructs not to worry about life's necessities but to seek first God's kingdom and righteousness. The speaker emphasizes that inviting Jesus to invade every area of life leads to a oneness with Christ, similar to the unity between the Father and the Son, as described in John 17. This unity allows believers to be who God has called them to be, which then enables them to do what He has called them to do. The concept of "invade" is explored, suggesting that it can be a peaceful surrender where one lays down or presents to God anything impeding His full control, such as past hurts, disappointments, worries, or wrong perceptions. The teaching concludes with a prayer for freedom and liberty to be honest with God, to lay down or surrender things that hinder His work, and to receive the blessing and healing He desires to pour out. The ultimate goal is for believers to walk in the fullness of God's purpose and plan, so that the world may know God sent them and loves them.https://www.youtube.com/embed/qK2MlIbbaqk7498https://my.truevi.com/watch/vmPVub26euc2022-08-29T02:53:04.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/vmPVub26euc/hqdefault.jpgFollowing Jesus Is TangibleThis teaching focuses on the idea that following Jesus is tangible, meaning it is real and can be perceived by our senses and understood by our minds. The speaker references John 16, where Jesus tells his followers it is to their advantage that he goes away so the Helper can come. This Helper, the Holy Spirit, allows Jesus to be alive and present in our everyday lives. The sermon explores Numbers chapter 15, where the Lord instructs Moses to tell the Israelites to wear fringes with a blue cord on their garments. These fringes serve as a reminder of God's word and their belonging to Him. The speaker explains that in the Old Testament, "remembering" meant acting on behalf of someone, not just an intellectual exercise. He also clarifies that the "Lord" in the Old Testament refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God, and in the New Testament, this is revealed as Yahweh saves, connecting to Jesus. The speaker discusses spiritual practices as tangible expressions of faith, including baptism, communion, giving, prayer, and fasting. He explains baptism as a public declaration of alignment with Jesus, referencing Paul's words to the church in Rome about being buried with Christ and raised to new life. Communion is presented as a tangible reminder of Christ's death and resurrection. Giving is described as a tangible act of worship and dependence on God, while prayer is a tangible conversation with Jesus that declares dependence. Fasting, specifically biblical fasting from food, is presented as a tangible feeling of hunger that reminds us of our need for Jesus. The goal of these practices is to move truth from the head to the heart to action, making faith simple, daily, and doable.https://www.youtube.com/embed/vmPVub26euc5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/h0rksI2SMvA2022-09-01T12:56:00.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/h0rksI2SMvA/hqdefault.jpgGrow Strong in Your WeaknessThis teaching begins with a focus on worshiping Jesus and allowing worries to wash away. The speaker, Danny, a pastor, outlines practical elements of the gathering, including opportunities for Listening Prayer, which is recorded and emailed to participants, with the instruction to "test and weigh those things, hold on to what's true." He also mentions the availability of communion elements and encourages prayer for those who "do not yet know Jesus" using "three by five cards," noting that a "candle lighting" is a "visual representation of the light that we're asking to come into people's hearts." The speaker emphasizes God's faithfulness, recalling how God was faithful to David when he "fought the bear and he fought the lion," which gave him "incredible faith when he came up against Goliath." He then shares a devotional titled "Grow Strong in Your Weakness," which discusses choosing to be weak before God to fully trust and depend on Him. The speaker shares a personal testimony about receiving a cancer diagnosis and how Jesus sat "right next to me on that couch," causing fear to "wash away" and peace to come. He describes writing letters to people to share "what my God is doing for me as I'm sitting here dying." The speaker references the story of the man at the "pool of Bethesda" who had been "sick for 38 years." Jesus asked him, "Do you want to be healed?" and then told him to "pick up your mat and walk." The teaching concludes with a song and a prayer of thanks to Jesus for His presence, ministry, and healing.https://www.youtube.com/embed/h0rksI2SMvA7499https://my.truevi.com/watch/biaL9_TTgC42022-09-05T02:51:58.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/biaL9_TTgC4/hqdefault.jpgListen: Ancient Words for Modern FamiliesThis teaching is a recap of a four-week series called "Listen: Ancient Words for Modern Families," which explored passing faith to the next generation through the Old Testament passage of the Shema in Deuteronomy chapter six. The speaker reviews key ideas and leads the congregation in prayer based on these truths. The first week focused on Deuteronomy 6:4, "Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord alone," emphasizing that following Jesus requires embracing exclusivity. The speaker discusses how "the Lord alone" challenges believers to examine what vies for the primary place in their hearts, minds, and lives, beyond just head knowledge. The second week covered Deuteronomy 6:5-9, highlighting that following Jesus means learning to love Jesus most, which should lead to readily sharing about Him. This section encourages praying for opportunities to share Jesus with others, using "three by five cards" to list names of those who don't know Jesus. The third week moved to Deuteronomy 11, stating that following Jesus is a life to be lived. The speaker addresses the awkwardness of talking about Jesus with family, friends, and co-workers, encouraging believers to embrace these moments and trust the Holy Spirit. The final week, from Numbers 15:37-41, discussed that following Jesus is tangible. It encourages finding simple, daily, and doable reminders to shift focus back to Jesus, such as attaching prayer to everyday actions. The teaching concludes with a prayer for the church to embrace awkward moments, love Jesus most, and pass faith to the next generation.https://www.youtube.com/embed/biaL9_TTgC45098https://my.truevi.com/watch/W8GeT6rjlEk2022-09-19T02:52:47.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/W8GeT6rjlEk/hqdefault.jpgRevelation 1:9-20: Embracing All of JesusThis sermon, part of a series on the book of Revelation, addresses the question, "What do we do with this book?" The speaker emphasizes that a follower of Jesus must embrace all of who Jesus is, not just a partial or comfortable view. He discusses how personal views of Jesus, often shaped by images like the "Wilner Sumner" picture or "The Chosen," influence how one lives. The speaker argues that the scriptures provide a more complete picture of Jesus, revealing him from Genesis to Revelation. The message focuses on Revelation chapter 1, verses 9-20, where John, imprisoned on the island of Patmos, receives a profound vision of Jesus. This vision, described with imagery such as "eyes were like a flame of fire," "feet were like burnished bronze," and a "sharp two-edged sword" coming from his mouth, causes John to fall down "as if dead." The speaker clarifies that these are symbolic descriptions, not literal, meant to convey Jesus' majesty and greatness. Jesus identifies himself as "the first and the last," "the living one," and states, "I have the key to death and Hades." He also reveals that the "seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven lampstands are the seven churches." The speaker stresses that the Bible is not a "menu" from which to pick and choose, but the authoritative Word of God, as stated in 2 Timothy, "all scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching and for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." He highlights John 1:1 and 1:14, identifying Jesus as "the Word" who "became flesh and dwelt among us." Jesus is presented as fully God and fully man, the "Son of Man" as prophesied in Daniel chapter 7. The sermon concludes by urging listeners to continually align their lives with who Jesus says he is in his Word, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit, as promised in John chapter 14, will teach and guide believers to a clearer understanding of Jesus. The speaker also notes Jesus' presence "among the lampstands," signifying his presence within the church, evhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/W8GeT6rjlEk5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/ryM6CMZ_mYU2022-10-03T02:52:04.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/ryM6CMZ_mYU/hqdefault.jpgRevelation 4-5: Jesus Is Worthy of WorshipThis teaching continues a series in the Book of Revelation, focusing on chapters 4 and 5. The speaker emphasizes that the message from Revelation 2 and 3 calls followers of Jesus to continual transformation, and this week's message is that followers of Jesus must continually remember that Jesus is worthy of worship. Revelation 4 and 5 are presented as a reminder of Jesus' worthiness, quoting Revelation 5:13-14, which describes every creature in heaven, on Earth, under the Earth, and in the sea giving blessing, honor, glory, and might to Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb. The sermon defines worship as "the reverential response of creation to the all-encompassing magnificence of God." It draws on Isaiah 6, where Isaiah sees the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and seraphim call out, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory." The speaker argues that humanity is made to worship, and that the world offers many false worship options like fame, money, power, sex, and the idea of being free to be whoever you want to be. Instead, true freedom is found in being who Jesus made you to be. The teaching explores the vision in Revelation 4, describing the throne in heaven, the one seated on it, the 24 elders, lightning, thunder, seven torches of fire, a sea of glass, and four living creatures. These creatures continually say, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come." The 24 elders fall down, cast their crowns, and declare God worthy to receive glory, honor, and power because He created all things. The speaker notes that creation alone is a motivation to worship Jesus, referencing Colossians 1:13-17, which states that all things were created by and for Jesus. Revelation 5 then introduces a scroll with seven seals, and John weeps because no one is found worthy to open it until the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, conquers. A Lamb, standing as though slain, takes the scroll, leading the living creatures and elders to sing a https://www.youtube.com/embed/ryM6CMZ_mYU5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/3xnUmyoJveI2022-10-10T02:52:05.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/3xnUmyoJveI/hqdefault.jpgThe Lamb's Wrath and the Sealed SaintsThis message continues a series in the Book of Revelation, focusing on Revelation chapter 6, with some discussion of chapter 7 and a brief mention of chapter 8. The speaker begins by referencing Revelation 4 and 5, stating that Jesus is worthy of worship because he is the Creator and sustainer of all things, and therefore has absolute authority. The main idea for this message is that Jesus is the rightful judge. The speaker details the opening of the first four seals in Revelation 6, describing the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse as the judgment and wrath of God poured out on the sin of the Earth. He clarifies that the rider on the white horse in Revelation 6 is not Jesus, contrasting it with Revelation 19, and references Matthew 24:4-5 where Jesus warns against those who will come in his name. The speaker then describes the red horse representing war, the black horse representing famine (a quart of wheat for a Denarius, three quarts of barley for a Denarius), and the pale horse representing death, pestilence, and wild beasts. Moving to the fifth seal in Revelation 6:9, the scene shifts to heaven, showing martyrs under the altar of God who cry out, "How long before you will judge and avenge our blood?" They are given white robes and told to wait "a little longer until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete." The sixth seal (Revelation 6:12) brings a great earthquake, the sun becoming black, the moon like blood, and stars falling, leading kings, generals, the rich, the powerful, and everyone, slave and free, to hide in caves, calling out to rocks to fall on them to hide them "from the face of him who is Seated on the throne and from the Wrath of the Lamb," asking, "who can stand?" Chapter 7 provides a pause, with four angels holding back judgment until the "Servants of our God" are sealed on their foreheads. John hears the number 144,000, then sees "a great multitude that no one could number from every nation from all tribes and peoples and languages standing Before the Throne https://www.youtube.com/embed/3xnUmyoJveI5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/Z3RcLE-lD6s2022-10-17T02:52:42.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Z3RcLE-lD6s/hqdefault.jpgGod's Control in RevelationThis message continues a series on the Book of Revelation, focusing on how to approach the book and its purpose. The speaker emphasizes that Revelation is not meant to be avoided but to be run to, providing encouragement that God's master plan is in motion and he is in control, even in dark places. He references the book "How to Read the Bible for All It's Worth" and states that apocalyptic literature like Revelation seldom gives a detailed chronological account of the future, but rather aims to show God's control over history and the church. The sermon reviews previous weeks, noting that Jesus is worthy of worship as Creator and Redeemer (Revelation chapters 4 and 5), and worthy to be the judge of the world. The speaker then moves into Revelation chapter 8, discussing the opening of the seventh seal and the giving of seven trumpets. He explains that the first four trumpets reflect the plagues in Exodus, but amplified to a global scale, demonstrating God's control over creation. He highlights Revelation 8:13, where an eagle cries "Woe, woe, woe," introducing the next three trumpet judgments, which are described as more severe and involve the demonic realm. The speaker discusses the fifth trumpet, which brings demonic locusts and scorpions, and the sixth trumpet, which causes war and kills a third of the Earth's population. He notes that despite these judgments, people do not repent of their sins, including worshiping demons and idols, murders, sorceries, sexual immorality, and thefts. He then moves to Revelation chapter 10, describing a mighty angel with a small scroll, and chapter 11, where John is given a measuring rod to measure the temple of God, which the speaker interprets as the people of God, the church. The message concludes with the seventh trumpet in Revelation 11:15, which is presented as the pinnacle of the story, declaring that "the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever."https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z3RcLE-lD6s3584https://my.truevi.com/watch/aIz5cvBLCUw2022-10-24T02:52:28.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/aIz5cvBLCUw/hqdefault.jpgRevelation: Faith-Filled EnduranceThis teaching continues a series in the Book of Revelation, focusing on chapters 12, 13, and 14. The speaker notes that this section can be confusing and unsettling, but the aim is to understand what to do with the book as regular people following Jesus. The central idea is that Jesus calls his people to faith-filled endurance, a continuous theme in Revelation, mentioned seven times by John, including twice in this section. Chapter 12 presents visions of a cosmic spiritual battle, featuring a pregnant woman, a great red dragon, and a male child. The child is identified as the Messiah, Jesus, and the dragon is explicitly identified as Satan, who has been defeated but is still present and attacking God's people. The outcome of this battle is already decided, and Satan knows his time is short. This spiritual battle requires faith beyond what is seen, as the struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil. The way to fight is by surrendering to the Lamb, Jesus, through the blood of the Lamb and the word of testimony, loving not our lives even unto death, as stated in Revelation 12:11. Chapter 13 introduces two beasts, one from the sea and one from the earth, symbolizing systems, empires, cultures, and religions opposed to God. This chapter describes a world that buys into Satan's lies, where greed, rage, self-centeredness, and lust are embraced. The speaker emphasizes that there are only two kingdoms: the people of the slain Lamb and the people of the Dragon, with no neutral ground. The mark of the beast, 666, is discussed as an "anti-Shema," symbolizing allegiance in thoughts and actions rather than a literal mark. The call in Revelation 13:10 and 14:12 is for the endurance and faith of the saints, to swim upstream against the world's current. Chapter 14 concludes with a vision of the day of judgment, emphasizing the importance of knowing there is a finish line to fuel faith-filled endurance, and a final call to repentance from an angel proclaiming an eternal gospel in Revelation 14:6-https://www.youtube.com/embed/aIz5cvBLCUw5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/GXMLtPWQAbk2022-10-27T12:52:59.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/GXMLtPWQAbk/hqdefault.jpgThe Well: Worship, Prayer, and Living WaterThis video captures a worship service at "the well," described as an extended time of worship, prayer, intercession, and community held every Wednesday. The service includes musical worship, individual and corporate prayer, and a focus on listening for the Holy Spirit's guidance. Attendees are encouraged to share prophetic words or prayer needs with those wearing red lanyards. The service offers "Listening Prayer" with a team that prays over individuals and records the prayers for later review, emphasizing the individual's responsibility to "test and weigh those things do what scripture says and hold on to what's good and let the rest go." Communion is available for individual participation. The "three by five campaign" encourages attendees to pray for three to five people to come to know Christ, with candles lit to represent Christ's light entering their lives. The speaker encourages various forms of worship, including using flags and banners, and references Psalm 108 as a posture for worship. A speaker shares a personal reflection on thirst, connecting it to an Old Testament story of David and his mighty men bringing him water, which David poured out. He relates this to Jesus as the "Living Water" and the coming day when believers "won't thirst anymore." Later, a speaker shares a repeated observation of hawks being distracted by crows, drawing a parallel to the importance of not being distracted from God's will in a world full of distractions. The service concludes with continued worship and prayer for a student retreat, with leaders and volunteers gathering to be prayed over for their upcoming trip, focusing on the theme of "foundations" and praying for "eyes to see" and protection. The speaker references 2 Timothy 2:20, discussing vessels for honorable use.https://www.youtube.com/embed/GXMLtPWQAbk7500https://my.truevi.com/watch/bzSVawZ3zsc2022-10-31T02:53:14.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/bzSVawZ3zsc/hqdefault.jpgRevelation 15-16: Worshiping God's Wrath and MercyThis teaching continues in the Book of Revelation, focusing on chapters 15 and 16, which describe the third set of seven Divine judgments: the seven bowls of God's wrath. The speaker emphasizes that followers of Jesus worship Him for both His perfect judgment and His mercy. The central theme of Revelation is the worship of Jesus, as highlighted by Revelation chapter 4, which states, "Worthy are you our Lord and God to receive glory and honor and power for you created all things and by your will they existed and were created." The speaker shares a personal story about his daughters' untidiness to illustrate the concept of promised wrath being delivered. He explains that John's vision from chapter 6 to 16 repeatedly promises the wrath of God if people do not turn to Jesus. The big idea for this message is that "we worship Jesus for both his coming wrath and his available Mercy." The speaker acknowledges that worshiping Jesus for His coming wrath can be a new concept. He notes that in chapters 15 and 16, worship precedes the judgment of the seven bowls, unlike the seals and trumpets where worship followed. The passage in Revelation 15 describes seven angels with seven plagues, which are the last, signifying the finishing of God's wrath. Those who conquered the Beast are seen standing beside a sea of glass mingled with fire, singing the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb. These songs are described as songs of deliverance, representing God's wrath and mercy experienced simultaneously, as seen in the Exodus story and Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. The speaker stresses that God's justice and mercy are inseparable and intertwined. The seven bowls of judgment in chapter 16 are poured out, bringing plagues of sores, blood, fire, scorching sun, and darkness. Despite these judgments, people do not repent of their deeds. The speaker highlights that God's mercy is still available, even for those who fail to turn, and that God continues to pursue humanity. The sixth bowl prepares the way for kings from the East to assemblhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/bzSVawZ3zsc5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/DB_WceZFO0Q2022-11-07T03:51:58.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/DB_WceZFO0Q/hqdefault.jpgRevelation 17-19: Jesus WinsThis message from Revelation 17-19 focuses on how Jesus inspires followers to keep going even as the world spirals toward destruction. The speaker emphasizes that the Book of Revelation is about the worship of Jesus and that Jesus wins. He cautions against interpreting the book with "supreme confidence" or connecting current events like Russia and Putin to its prophecies, advocating for humility in understanding. The speaker explains that the "great prostitute" and "Babylon the great" in Revelation 17-18 represent a pattern of humanity aspiring to greatness apart from God, leading to judgment. He connects this to the original Babel in Genesis 11 and the Roman Empire, noting that "Babylon" means confusion. He states that every follower of Christ lives as an "exile in Babylon," a world system opposed to God, and encourages fleeing from the world's corruptions. The message concludes by highlighting the worship of God in Revelation 19, with cries of "Hallelujah" and "Amen," which the speaker translates as "so be it, praise Yahweh." He stresses that Jesus is King before anything else and that bowing before Him is the path to receiving all other blessings. The speaker encourages listeners to ask Jesus where He is inspiring them to follow closer and to live out their faith.https://www.youtube.com/embed/DB_WceZFO0Q5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/_E9kB5yoC9I2022-11-14T03:59:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/_E9kB5yoC9I/hqdefault.jpgJesus's Assured Victory in RevelationThis teaching focuses on Jesus's assured victory in Revelation and how it motivates faithful living. The speaker reads from Revelation chapter 19, beginning with verse 6, describing the voice of a great multitude crying out "Hallelujah for the Lord Our God the Almighty Reigns." This passage also describes the marriage of the Lamb and his bride, clothed in fine linen, bright and pure, which represents the righteous deeds of the Saints. The speaker notes that the Book of Revelation is about worshiping the true king, the Lamb, and that worship is the response to Jesus's assured victory. The speaker contrasts the "Harlot" of Babylon, described in purple and scarlet gowns, with the bride of Christ, who is simply elegant. He emphasizes that Jesus's victory is not a close battle, but an absolute triumph. Reading from Revelation 19:11, the speaker describes Jesus on a white horse, called "faithful and true," with eyes like a flame of fire, and a name known only to himself. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood and is called "the Word of God." The armies of Heaven follow him on white horses, arrayed in fine linen. The speaker explains that the white horse symbolizes conquest and victory. The teaching continues with the angel crying out to the birds of the air for a great feast on the flesh of kings and generals, contrasting it with the marriage feast of the Lamb. The Beast and the false prophet are captured and thrown into the lake of burning fire, and the rest of the army is destroyed by the sword from Jesus's mouth, which the speaker interprets as the word of God. Chapter 20 describes the establishment of Christ's reign for a thousand years, during which Satan is bound. After this period, Satan is released to deceive the nations, but fire rains down from heaven, destroying them. Satan is then thrown into the Lake of Fire, where he will be tormented forever. The speaker then discusses the great white throne judgment from Revelation 20:11, where the dead are judged from books, including the Book of Life. He concludes https://www.youtube.com/embed/_E9kB5yoC9I5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/cqcACnohZVI2022-11-21T03:51:02.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/cqcACnohZVI/hqdefault.jpgRevelation: Stand Firm and Worship JesusThis message concludes a series on the first 20 chapters of Revelation, emphasizing that the revelation of Jesus should move believers to stand firm in worship while keeping an eye on forever. The speaker reads Revelation 11:15, highlighting that the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and his Christ, who shall reign forever. He also reads Psalm 22:1-5, discussing the tension of not feeling God's presence but knowing He is holy, and encourages dependence on Jesus Christ. The speaker then introduces a review of the Book of Revelation, preparing for a new Christmas series that will cover the final two chapters. He encourages listeners to read the book for themselves, noting that listening to the words of this prophecy is also valid, as stated in Revelation 1:3. He addresses the common struggle with Revelation, comparing it to jumping into a movie series late, and stresses the importance of understanding the Old Testament context. Key principles for reading Revelation are presented: it is made up of four visions (three covered so far), and visions are filled with symbolic imagery. The speaker cautions against speculating on contemporary events or trying to fit them into Revelation's pictures, arguing that the book was not intended to prophesy specific modern details. He emphasizes reading for the big picture and allowing the imagery to evoke emotions. The core message is to "stay calm, stand firm, and don't scare the children," trusting Jesus more than politics or other worldly concerns. The opening of Revelation, specifically Revelation 1:4-8, is used to highlight who Jesus is: the one who is, who was, and who is to come; the faithful witness; the firstborn of the dead; the ruler of kings; the one who loves us and freed us from our sins by his blood; and the one who made us a kingdom of priests. The speaker stresses that Jesus is coming back to judge the world, which is a reason for praise. The urgency of the message is underscored by the idea that "time is short" and life is like a mist. Thehttps://www.youtube.com/embed/cqcACnohZVI5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/BXlzIyf6aBY2022-12-05T03:52:13.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/BXlzIyf6aBY/hqdefault.jpgThe New Jerusalem: Imagining HeavenThis message is the second week of Advent, celebrating Jesus' first coming and looking forward to his second coming as a triumphant King. The second candle, representing faith, is lit, called the Bethlehem candle, as Micah 5:2 foretold the Messiah's birth in Bethlehem, King David's birthplace. The candle is purple, symbolizing preparation for the coming King. The speaker discusses imagining heaven, drawing on Revelation chapters 21 and 22. He describes heaven as a real place, a city called the New Jerusalem, coming down from God, filled with God's glory. This city is described with specific measurements, like the temple in Ezekiel chapters 40-48, but magnified to 12,000 stadia (15,000 miles) in length, width, and height. The city is a place where God's presence will be fully known, and its name will be "The Lord is there." The New Jerusalem is presented as both a place and a symbol for the people of God, the church, who are the bride of Christ. The speaker emphasizes that in this resurrected heaven, there will be no issues, no drama, and no offense among people. He explains that believers will be resurrected spiritually, physically, and relationally, freed from sin, illness, and relational brokenness. The message concludes by urging listeners to consider if their name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life and to practice imagining the joy of a resurrected Earth with the resurrected Jesus and resurrected people.https://www.youtube.com/embed/BXlzIyf6aBY5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/R2dbDY9t_xc2022-12-12T03:51:17.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/R2dbDY9t_xc/hqdefault.jpgThe Next Christmas: Revelation 22This teaching focuses on Revelation 22, the final chapter of the Bible, as part of a series called "The Next Christmas," which looks forward to the second Advent of Christ. The speaker notes that this week, the third Advent candle, symbolizing joy and called the Shepherd's candle, is lit. He references Psalm 16:11, stating that in God's presence there is fullness of joy. The message emphasizes that the "next Christmas" (the second coming of Christ) brings a life forever dependent on God, contrasting this with a "me-centered" view of heaven. The speaker highlights three points from Revelation 22: God continues to provide all our needs, God's presence is tangibly with us for all eternity, and humanity reigns with Jesus forever. He draws parallels to the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve were intended to be dependent on God, and to Ezekiel 47, which describes a river flowing from Jerusalem that brings life to the Dead Sea. The "river of the Water of Life" and the "Tree of Life with its 12 kinds of fruit" in Revelation 22:1-2 symbolize God's provision. The speaker also notes that in Revelation 22:3-4, it says "they will see his face," which was not possible for Moses or the people of Israel. The teaching concludes by encouraging listeners to "depend on God" as the primary application. It references Colossians 3 about setting minds on things above and Matthew 6, where Jesus teaches not to worry about food or clothing. The speaker also cites 2 Timothy 2:11-12, stating that "if we endure, we will also reign with him." He suggests an experiment: asking Jesus to reveal one area of independence and then intentionally depending on God in that area, using a daily discipleship tool found in the bulletin.https://www.youtube.com/embed/R2dbDY9t_xc5097https://my.truevi.com/watch/IjELCunGEu42022-12-19T03:52:21.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/IjELCunGEu4/hqdefault.jpgThe Next Christmas: Jesus' ReturnThis message celebrates the fourth Advent candle, representing peace, and the birth of Jesus. It draws from Revelation 1:4-6, emphasizing Jesus as Savior and King, who brings peace between people and God. The speaker connects the first Advent (Jesus' birth) with the second Advent (Jesus' return), arguing that the birth of Jesus is only truly good news because of his promised return. The teaching encourages believers to "run to Jesus," using the running metaphor from Hebrews 12:1-3. It highlights the theme of perseverance found throughout Revelation, motivated by the coming return of Jesus. The speaker discusses Revelation 22:7-15, where Jesus declares, "I am coming soon," and emphasizes the importance of telling Jesus' story, including his supernatural return as a triumphant King. The message concludes by focusing on the hope believers have in Christ, contrasting it with the hopelessness of those who do not know Jesus. It explains that the "blessed ones" are those who have "washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb" (Revelation 7:14), granting them access to the Tree of Life. The speaker encourages living in the tension between Jesus' first and second comings, with an eye on eternity, as described in Revelation 22:17-21.https://www.youtube.com/embed/IjELCunGEu45102https://my.truevi.com/watch/cfKpsOxuvnQ2022-12-25T08:05:46.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/cfKpsOxuvnQ/hqdefault.jpgChristmas: First and Second Coming of ChristThis Christmas message explores the significance of both the first and second comings of Christ, drawing from John's gospel, Luke's account of Jesus' birth, and Paul's letter to Titus. The speaker emphasizes that advent is a season of remembering Christ's coming, both in Bethlehem and His promised return. The message highlights the grace and salvation brought by Jesus' first coming, as described in Titus 2:11-14, which states that "the grace of God has appeared bringing salvation for all people." The speaker discusses how Jesus came to save His people from their sins, referencing Matthew's gospel where an angel tells Joseph to name the child Jesus "for he will save his people from their sins." The parable of the lost sheep from Luke chapter 15 is used to illustrate Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost. The message also touches on the anticipation of Jesus' second coming, when He will make all things right, as promised to His disciples in John and reiterated in Revelation chapter 22, where Jesus says, "I'm coming soon." The sermon encourages believers to live in the "middle space" between Christ's first and second comings by renouncing ungodliness, living self-controlled, upright, and godly lives, and being zealous for good works, as instructed in Titus 2:11-14. The speaker uses the analogy of an Oreo cookie, with the two wafers representing the Incarnation and Christ's promised return, and the creamy middle representing the present age where believers live. The message concludes with a call to remember that the joy of Christmas points to the greater joy of Christ's return, when every knee will bow and every tongue will profess that Jesus Christ is Lord.https://www.youtube.com/embed/cfKpsOxuvnQ5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/X9zbItsHZYk2023-01-02T03:51:50.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/X9zbItsHZYk/hqdefault.jpgPraying Through Psalm 145This teaching focuses on praying through Psalm 145 as a church family to begin 2023. The speaker encourages viewers to engage in facilitated worship-based prayer, which includes singing, praying scripture, and personal prayer. He emphasizes that singing and praying are not separate activities but a cohesive time of declaring words of prayer and worship. The speaker guides the audience through Psalm 145, starting with verses 1-3, which declare God's greatness. He then moves to verses 4-7, highlighting the psalmist's actions of commending, declaring, speaking, pouring forth, and singing aloud God's mighty works, splendor, greatness, and righteousness. The speaker introduces a "three by five card" tool for praying for those who don't know Jesus, encouraging participants to ask God for names or to identify someone on their existing card with whom to share God's greatness. Continuing with Psalm 145:8-9, the speaker discusses God's characteristics as gracious, merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love. He explains the Hebrew meaning of "slow to anger" as God being "long of nostril," illustrating His patience. The speaker then prompts the audience to reflect on these characteristics and complete the sentence "The Lord is..." with a personal example. Finally, he addresses thankfulness, drawing from Psalm 145:10-13 and Romans 5:8, reminding the audience that Jesus' death and resurrection provide every reason to be thankful, especially as they partake in communion. The teaching concludes by encouraging viewers to finish praying through Psalm 145:14-21 during the week.https://www.youtube.com/embed/X9zbItsHZYk5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/ALDO-xmg8Oo2023-01-16T05:10:57.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/ALDO-xmg8Oo/hqdefault.jpgClean Slate: Our New Identity in ChristThis teaching is the second week of a series called "Clean Slate: Our New Identity in Christ," working through Paul's letter to the followers of Jesus in Ephesus. The speaker, Mark, explains that as people with new life in Christ, we are "Saints" set apart for God's purpose. He emphasizes that our identity is given by God based on who we are in Christ, citing Ephesians 1:3-4: "Blessed be the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the Heavenly places even as he chose in him before the foundation of the world that we should be holy and blameless before him." The only suitable response to this life in Christ is to praise God. The sermon focuses on Ephesians 1:3-14, which is described as one long sentence in the original Greek, communicating the theme that God has given us our new identity in Christ so we would praise him forever. Mark explains that "blessing God" means to praise God, to speak well of Him, and to live lives that praise Him. He references Ezekiel 36, where the prophet wrote about God giving a new heart and spirit. The speaker stresses that everything we are and have been given is "only in Christ," a theological concept called "Union with Christ." He notes that God chose us to be His people, not because of anything we have done, but because of His decision, referencing God's promise to Abraham in Genesis chapter 12 and Paul's letter to Timothy. Peter and John in Revelation also wrote about being chosen by God. Mark addresses the tension between God's election and human free will, acknowledging it as a 2000-year debate that he will not solve. He points out that Paul holds both in tension, stating that we were chosen and predestined, but also that we "heard the word of Truth The Gospel of your salvation and believed in him were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit" (Ephesians 1:13). The Holy Spirit makes our new identity real, sealing us as belonging to God and serving as a "guarantee" or "down payment" of our inheritance. This means we exphttps://www.youtube.com/embed/ALDO-xmg8Oo5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/qg4zL_NIr3Q2023-02-06T04:22:39.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/qg4zL_NIr3Q/hqdefault.jpgOur Identity in Christ: Ephesians 2:11-22This teaching explores Ephesians chapter 2, focusing on the idea that our identity in Christ is rooted in belonging to God's people, not just as individuals. The speaker emphasizes that we are "God's people defined by God's presence," a concept that has always been central to God's relationship with His people, from the Old Testament children of Israel to believers today. The message addresses the modern obstacle of prioritizing individual faith over collective identity, arguing that following Jesus is a "team sport" where everyone plays a part, like a body requiring all its parts to function. The sermon delves into Ephesians 2:11-22, reminding listeners of their past separation from Christ and God, and then highlighting how, "but now in Christ Jesus," Gentiles who were once far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. Jesus is presented as our peace, who has broken down the dividing wall of hostility between Jews and Gentiles, creating "one new man" in place of the two. This reconciliation is not only with God but also with each other, forming a new humanity. The speaker clarifies that "abolishing the law" in verse 15 means causing it to lose its power or effectiveness, not utterly destroying it, as Jesus fulfilled the law. The teaching concludes by emphasizing that believers are now citizens of God's kingdom, members of God's family, and collectively the new Temple, a dwelling place for God by the Spirit. Drawing on 1 Corinthians 3:16, the speaker stresses that "y'all together are God's Dwelling Place" when gathered. The sermon encourages active pursuit of God together, fostering unity within the body of Christ, and being careful in how believers speak about other followers of Christ, recognizing that there is "one new Humanity" in Christ.https://www.youtube.com/embed/qg4zL_NIr3Q5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/7LBgh3QmD6s2023-02-20T04:13:49.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/7LBgh3QmD6s/hqdefault.jpgLive It Out: Unity in Christ (Ephesians 4:1-7)This message begins a new series, "Live it Out," focusing on living out one's identity in Christ, specifically addressing unity. The speaker references Paul's letter to the followers of Jesus outside of Ephesus, noting that the first half of the letter established who believers are in Christ, and the second half, starting in chapter 4, addresses how to live. The message connects to the declaration of praise at the end of chapter 3: "Now to him who's able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think according to the power at work within us to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever amen." The speaker urges listeners to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called," emphasizing that this means not just meeting a minimum spiritual bar, but striving to be "great followers" of Jesus. He highlights that "leadership is a function but followership is an identity" for those who belong to Christ. The message then delves into Ephesians 4:1-7, which calls for humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. This unity is described as existing within God himself, reflecting the "three in oneness of God" or the "tri-unity of God." The sermon explains that Christ, as the Divine Warrior, gives gifts to humanity, referencing Psalm 68. These gifts include apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers, given "to equip the Saints for the work of Ministry for building up the body of Christ until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God to mature manhood to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." The goal is to "grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ," so believers are no longer "children tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of Doctrine." The speaker emphasizes that spiritual growth is not tied to the length of time one has followed Christ, but to actively engahttps://www.youtube.com/embed/7LBgh3QmD6s5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/W1tSCoAxmos2023-02-27T04:14:26.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/W1tSCoAxmos/hqdefault.jpgLive it Out: Called to HolinessThis teaching continues the "Live it Out" series, focusing on the call to holiness for followers of Jesus. The speaker, Dave, introduces the topic by referencing Psalm 100, which encourages making a joyful noise to the Lord, serving with gladness, and entering His gates with thanksgiving, because the Lord is good, His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness is to all generations. The sermon includes a baptism of a nine-year-old named Michaela, who states her belief that Jesus is God's son, died on the cross for her sins, and commits to trusting Him as Savior and following Him as Lord. Mark then takes over, recalling a previous sermon on Ephesians where Paul urges believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. He emphasizes that as a follower of Jesus, one's identity requires living out holiness. He explains that Paul defines holiness in Ephesians chapter 1, verse 4, stating that God chose us to be holy and blameless before Him before the foundation of the world. This holiness is achieved through Jesus, as stated in Ephesians chapter 1, verse 7, where we have redemption through His blood and forgiveness of trespasses. Believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit, as mentioned in Ephesians chapter 1, verses 13 and 14, and are referred to as Saints in Ephesians chapter 1, verses 16 and 18. In Ephesians chapter 2, verse 13, Paul reminds them that they were once far off but are now brought near by the blood of Christ, forming a new humanity. The sermon then moves to Ephesians chapter 4, verse 1, where Paul urges them to walk in a manner worthy of their calling. In Ephesians chapter 4, verse 17, Paul states that they must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, whose minds are futile, darkened in understanding, and alienated from the life of God due to ignorance and hardness of heart. This leads to callousness, sensuality, and impurity. However, this is not how they learned Christ, assuming they heard and were taught the truth in Jesus. Therefore, they are to put off their old self, which belongs to theihttps://www.youtube.com/embed/W1tSCoAxmos5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/J4BKv9I2ppY2023-03-06T05:40:03.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/J4BKv9I2ppY/hqdefault.jpgEphesians 4: Living Out Love and HolinessThis teaching continues a series on Paul's letter to the followers of Jesus living near Ephesus, focusing on the call to "put love into motion." The speaker, Tim, the discipleship pastor, emphasizes that a follower of Jesus's identity demands living out love, demonstrating the gospel that Jesus saves and transforms. Olivia shares her testimony of finding hope and light through Jesus after the unexpected passing of her mother, leading to her baptism. The sermon explores Ephesians chapter 4, urging believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling" with humility, gentleness, patience, and love, maintaining the unity of the spirit. This "walk" means to live out faith, specifically to "live out love," "live out light," and "live out wisdom." The speaker explains that being a "great follower of Jesus" means aspiring to live a life worthy of God's great work in us, which includes putting off the old self and putting on the new self, created in God's likeness in true righteousness and holiness. Holiness is presented as a given identity for those set apart by God for His purpose, which is then lived out as love. Practical encouragements from Ephesians 4:25-32 are discussed, including rejecting falsehood, avoiding sin in anger, working honestly, using words to build up, replacing bitterness with kindness and forgiveness, and imitating God by living a loving lifestyle like Jesus. The speaker clarifies that these are not merely a checklist but describe a lifestyle rooted in who believers are in Christ. He draws connections to Zechariah and Psalm 4 to illustrate God's consistent call for His people to be truth-telling and to manage anger without sin. The teaching also touches on the spiritual realm, referencing Ephesians 3:10 about the church making God's wisdom known to rulers and authorities in heavenly places, and how grieving the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30) means causing severe mental or emotional distress, irritating, offending, or insulting God by disrupting the unity He has given. The sermon concludes by emphasihttps://www.youtube.com/embed/J4BKv9I2ppY5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/dd69bURCe4k2023-03-13T03:17:23.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/dd69bURCe4k/hqdefault.jpgWalk as Children of Light: Ephesians 5This sermon explores the identity of followers of Jesus as light in a dark world, drawing from Ephesians chapter 5. The speaker, Dave, references Jesus' statement in John chapter 8 verse 12, "I Jesus says in the light of the world whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of Life." He explains that because Jesus is light and His Spirit dwells within believers, they "are light in the Lord" (Ephesians 5:8). The message contrasts the past state of being "dead in your trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1-3) and pursuing "sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness" (Ephesians 5:3), which is equated to idolatry, with the present reality of being light and pursuing "what is good and right and true" (Ephesians 5:9). The speaker emphasizes that as light, believers are to "walk as children of light" (Ephesians 5:8) and "try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:10). He discusses how the Holy Spirit changes desires, leading to the fruit of the Spirit as described in Galatians chapter 5: "love joy peace patience kindness goodness faithfulness gentleness and self-control." The sermon also addresses the struggle with "prevailing sins" and the need for other believers to "magnify light to a dark world," encouraging vulnerability and accountability within the body of Christ. The message concludes with a call to "awake o sleeper and arise from the dead and Christ will shine on you" (Ephesians 5:14), urging believers to shine individually and collectively. It highlights the importance of community, mentioning "Men of Integrity groups" and the "live it out section" in the bulletin for deeper engagement. The sermon culminates in communion, described as the basis for walking in the light, celebrating Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.https://www.youtube.com/embed/dd69bURCe4k5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/4LNFpagFt902023-03-27T03:03:56.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/4LNFpagFt90/hqdefault.jpgBe Strong in the Lord: Ephesians 6:10-18This message concludes a study of Ephesians, focusing on Paul's supernatural worldview and the directive to "be strong" by living out Spirit-filled strength. The speaker references Ephesians chapter 3, verses 20-21, emphasizing God's ability to do "far more abundantly than all we ask or think." The core idea is that identity in Christ empowers supernatural strength, as outlined in the first three chapters of Ephesians. The sermon then delves into Ephesians chapter 6, verse 10, which instructs believers to "be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might" and to "put on the whole armor of God" to stand against the "schemes of the devil." The speaker highlights that "we do not wrestle against flesh and blood but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." This spiritual reality is a recurring theme throughout Ephesians, mentioned in chapter 1 regarding the power that raised Jesus from the dead, in chapter 2 concerning believers' past identity "following the prince of the power of the air," and in chapter 3 where the church's unity proclaims God's wisdom "to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places." Chapter 4 also warns to "give no opportunity to the devil." The speaker explains that suiting up involves putting on the "belt of Truth," the "breastplate of righteousness," shoes with the "readiness given by the gospel of peace," the "shield of Faith," and the "helmet of salvation." The "sword of the spirit, which is the word of God," is presented as the offensive weapon, described in Hebrews as "living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword." Jesus's temptation in Matthew chapter 4 is used as an example of using the "sword of the spirit" by quoting Deuteronomy. Finally, the speaker emphasizes that all these elements are "undergirded" by prayer, which "connects the spiritual and the physical," referencing Paul's instruction in 1 Thessalonians to "pray without ceasing" and Epheshttps://www.youtube.com/embed/4LNFpagFt905099https://my.truevi.com/watch/e-8-16j3NEE2023-04-03T02:56:26.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/e-8-16j3NEE/hqdefault.jpgPsalm 118: Jesus Our Victory SongThis message explores Psalm 118, an ancient song the crowd sang as Jesus entered Jerusalem during the final week before his crucifixion. The speaker notes that as followers of Jesus, this worship song reminds us of Jesus' strength in our weakness. The opening and closing lines of Psalm 118 are highlighted: "Oh give thanks to the Lord for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever." The speaker explains that Psalm 118 is the final song in the Egyptian Hallel, a group of praise songs (Psalms 113-118) sung during Passover to remember God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt. Matthew's gospel presents Jesus' entry into Jerusalem as a coronation of a king, emphasizing Jesus as the promised King, the son of David. The message highlights that Jesus' victory reminds us of his strength in our weakness, and that Psalm 118 is our victory song. The speaker discusses the divine name of God, Yahweh, and how it is translated as "the Lord" in small caps in the ESV. He emphasizes that God's personal name is Yahweh, and in the New Testament, he becomes Jesus, meaning "Yahweh is salvation." The message encourages listeners to remember that Jesus is Yahweh in the flesh, the God of the Old Testament who became a man. It concludes by stating that God is good and can be trusted, even when circumstances suggest otherwise, and that Jesus is proof of God's trustworthiness.https://www.youtube.com/embed/e-8-16j3NEE5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/CDlckU9Qm-A2023-04-10T01:24:46.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/CDlckU9Qm-A/hqdefault.jpgThe Reality of Jesus' ResurrectionThis sermon focuses on the reality of Jesus' resurrection and its implications for everyday life. The speaker, Dave, introduces a traditional Easter greeting based on Luke 24:34, "The Lord has risen indeed and has appeared to Simon." He also announces a new series on the Book of Exodus beginning next weekend. Mark, one of the pastors, shares personal reflections on the question "Is this real?" and recounts his experience reading Psalm 118, which speaks of the steadfast love of the Lord. He emphasizes that the resurrection is real and compels believers to follow Jesus in everyday life. He presents historical evidence for the resurrection, including the testimony of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary (Matthew 28:1-10), the Roman guards, the response of the religious leaders, the absurdity of the cover-up story, and the empty tomb. He notes that Jesus had predicted his resurrection in Matthew 16 and Matthew 12, referencing the sign of Jonah. The sermon highlights Jesus' post-resurrection appearances to the two women, the guards, two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24), ten disciples (Luke 24, John 20), all remaining disciples (Mark 16, John 20), seven disciples including Peter (John 21), the eleven disciples in Galilee (Matthew 28), and to as many as 500 followers (1 Corinthians 15). Matthew's Gospel moves quickly from the resurrection to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20), where Jesus gives authority and commands his disciples to make disciples of all nations. The speaker notes that even the disciples doubted, showing that doubt is a common experience. He emphasizes that Jesus' resurrection verifies his identity and the truth of his message, including his claim to be "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). The sermon concludes with an invitation to accept Jesus and a call for believers to invite others to follow Jesus, using their stories, prayer, and the Holy Spirit's power.https://www.youtube.com/embed/CDlckU9Qm-A5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/N_uIc9dyM7g2023-04-17T02:54:20.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/N_uIc9dyM7g/hqdefault.jpgExodus: God's Story in Seven ActsThis teaching introduces a new series on the book of Exodus, emphasizing the importance of reading the entire book to understand God's story. The speaker, Tim, encourages listeners to engage with the Bible as literature, highlighting that God reveals himself through written word. He references Psalm 117 and Psalm 7:17, and introduces the concept of God's story in seven acts, with an X-shaped structure pointing to Jesus as the pinnacle. The sermon focuses on the first five books of the Bible, known as Torah or Pentateuch, which are described as God's loving instruction. The speaker connects the end of Genesis to the beginning of Exodus, noting the continuity of the narrative. He highlights Exodus 1:7, where the people of Israel are described as being fruitful, increasing greatly, multiplying, and growing exceedingly strong, filling the land. This is linked back to God's command to humanity in Genesis chapter 1 and to Noah in Genesis chapter 9 to be fruitful and multiply. The speaker stresses that Exodus is a theological story, revealing God's attributes such as his sovereign majesty, holiness, glory, power to perform miracles, righteousness, and compassion. He asserts that the events in Exodus are historical, with Moses as the primary author, and encourages listeners to read the story not just for information, but to understand the God behind the story. He also mentions the significance of the number 110 in relation to Joseph's life and the numbers 12 and 70 in the context of the sons of Israel.https://www.youtube.com/embed/N_uIc9dyM7g5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/KcNy6WMxZBs2023-04-24T03:02:30.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/KcNy6WMxZBs/hqdefault.jpgExodus: God's Story Unfolds in OppositionThis teaching begins a six-week series introducing the book of Exodus, focusing on the big picture of the first four chapters. The speaker notes that Exodus encourages followers of Jesus that God's story unfolds in a world opposed to Him, reminding us that God will prevail even when darkness seems to win. The message highlights that humanity is born into exile from God, a spiritual death, and needs an exodus, a way out. The speaker emphasizes that God's story is actively unfolding in a world opposed to God's people, a theme seen from Genesis chapter 3 onward. He encourages listeners to live with their eyes open to the spiritual nature of this opposition, which is an active conflict between God's purposes and forces of darkness. The message covers Exodus chapter 1, noting the 400-plus years between verse 7 and verse 8, and discusses Pharaoh's fear that the Israelites would join enemies in war. The speaker also points out the significance of unnamed characters like Pharaoh and named characters like the midwives Shifra and Pua. The teaching connects the phrase "come let us" in Exodus 1:10 to Genesis chapter 11, suggesting that Egypt is presented as the new Babylon, a place of exile and rebellion against God. It argues that the battle is not between Israel and Pharaoh, but between God and Pharaoh, who saw himself as a god. The speaker concludes by stating that confusing circumstances are not an indication of the final story, and that God is at work behind our confusion, even when it doesn't seem apparent.https://www.youtube.com/embed/KcNy6WMxZBs5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/gnE0CIGJjmE2023-05-15T02:52:01.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/gnE0CIGJjmE/hqdefault.jpgYahweh: God's Name and Presence in Exodus and JohnThis sermon continues a series in Exodus, focusing on God's nature and presence revealed in his name, Yahweh. The speaker explains that Yahweh is the personal name of God, not a title, and that it has been used since Genesis chapter 2. He notes that Moses asks God, "What is his name?" in Exodus chapter 3, verse 13, and God responds, "I am who I am" in verse 14, and "I am has sent me to you." The speaker connects this to the Hebrew verb "Haya," meaning "to be," and discusses how this name reveals God's self-existence, his role as creator and sustainer, his unchangeableness, and his eternal existence. He emphasizes that the focus of the name Yahweh is on God's presence, as seen in Exodus chapter 3, verse 12, where God tells Moses, "I will be with you." The speaker then links Jesus to Yahweh, stating that "Jesus is Yahweh in the flesh." He references John's gospel, specifically John chapter 8, where Jesus says, "before Abraham was, I am," and John chapter 18, where those who came to arrest Jesus fell to the ground when he said, "I am he." He also cites Philippians chapter 2, which he says quotes Isaiah chapter 45, to show how early Christians connected Jesus with Yahweh, stating that "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow... and every tongue confessed that Jesus Christ is Lord." The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to trust in God's power and presence in their lives, emphasizing that God saved the Israelites before giving them the law, demonstrating that salvation is based on God's character, not human works.https://www.youtube.com/embed/gnE0CIGJjmE5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/gTznM-alVvE2023-05-29T03:26:15.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/gTznM-alVvE/hqdefault.jpgYahweh: The Hero of God's StoryThis sermon concludes a series on Exodus, emphasizing that Yahweh is the hero of God's story. The speaker defines "hero" as the protagonist, the one the story is ultimately about, and notes that God is the ultimate supernatural being. He cautions against making God's story about ourselves, urging listeners to lift their eyes to God's story rather than trying to fit God into their own. The message highlights that Yahweh is the personal name of the covenant God of the Bible. Focusing on Exodus chapter 4, the speaker discusses Moses' return to Egypt and God's declaration, "Israel is my firstborn son." This phrase signifies Israel as God's chosen people, set apart to worship Him and be His representatives. The sermon addresses a "bizarre" passage in Exodus 4:24-26, where Yahweh seeks to put Moses to death, and Zipporah circumcises their son. While acknowledging the passage's mystery, the speaker suggests it illustrates that how Moses follows Yahweh matters, not just that he follows. The sermon connects the concept of "Son of God" from the Old Testament, referring to spiritual beings, kings, and the nation of Israel, to the New Testament. It explains that through Jesus, all believers, male and female, are adopted as "sons of God," meaning they are representatives of God in the world. Citing Romans 8:15-17, Galatians 3:26-29, and 1 Peter 2:9-10, the speaker explains that this adoption grants all the rights and responsibilities of a natural-born child, and that the Holy Spirit confirms this belonging. The sermon concludes by inviting listeners to accept Jesus as the way to worship Yahweh and to live as His representatives.https://www.youtube.com/embed/gTznM-alVvE5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/7EcMBfEG1-o2023-06-12T03:35:38.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/7EcMBfEG1-o/hqdefault.jpgAll In: Following Jesus in Mark's GospelThis message from Two Rivers Church, delivered by Mark, focuses on what it means to be a follower of Jesus, drawing from Mark's gospel. The speaker emphasizes that following Jesus is an "all-in" call, not just a spiritual component of life, but a complete surrender to Jesus' reign and authority. He references Jesus calling Simon, Andrew, James, John, and Levi (Matthew) in Mark 1:16-20 and Mark 2:13-17, noting that they left their livelihoods to follow Him. The sermon highlights that following Jesus is an ongoing work in our lives, where Jesus promises to transform us, as seen in Mark 1:17 where He says, "Follow me and I will make you become fishers of men." This transformation is a continuous process, making us into something we never dreamed or imagined. Finally, following Jesus compels us to make followers, as our own transformation is meant to impact the world. The speaker discusses the church's vision to impact a nine-county region of over one million people by 2032 through gospel-centered initiatives. The message concludes with a call to be "all in" with time, treasure, and talents. This includes prioritizing church attendance, participating in "Serve Saturdays" and "All-In Prayer Nights," being generous and sacrificial with money, and using God-given gifts and abilities to serve the church and community. The speaker shares a personal story about tithing from his youth and encourages everyone to find their part in the church's work.https://www.youtube.com/embed/7EcMBfEG1-o5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/_RRshl3uBBE2023-06-19T03:09:49.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/_RRshl3uBBE/hqdefault.jpgJesus' Supernatural Authority: Mark 1-2This sermon continues a series in Mark's gospel, focusing on the idea that the good news, or gospel, is supernatural. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus saves and transforms, and that we never move beyond the gospel but go further into it. The message explores Mark chapter 1, verses 21-28, where Jesus teaches with authority in Capernaum and casts out an unclean spirit, astonishing the people. This demonstrates Jesus' authority over the supernatural and reveals that the kingdom of God is being ushered in. The speaker draws a parallel between Disneyland as a "Magic Kingdom" and Jesus ushering in a "totally different Kingdom," an "upside down kingdom." He explains that Jesus reverses the effects of sin, bringing healing and order to chaos, as seen in Genesis chapter 3. The sermon highlights that only the demons recognize Jesus in Mark chapter 1, verse 24, calling him "the Holy One of God," and that these demons are scared of Jesus. The message then moves to Mark chapter 1, verses 35-39, where Jesus goes to a desolate place to pray. The speaker notes that Jesus prayed to align his heart with the Father's heart and that prayer grounds us in the supernatural and impacts the spiritual realm. He references Ephesians chapter 6, verse 12, stating that "we do not wrestle against flesh and blood but against the rulers against the authorities against the cosmic powers over this present darkness against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places," and emphasizes Paul's instruction in verse 18 to pray at all times. Finally, the sermon examines Mark chapter 2, verses 1-12, the story of the paralytic lowered through the roof. Jesus tells the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven," and then commands him to "rise, pick up your bed and go home," demonstrating his authority to forgive sins and his kingship over both the natural and supernatural. The speaker concludes by urging listeners to surrender their lives to King Jesus.https://www.youtube.com/embed/_RRshl3uBBE5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/xAbKSm7cflc2023-07-03T02:56:04.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/xAbKSm7cflc/hqdefault.jpgPressing In To Hear God's WordThis sermon, part of a series on the Gospel of Mark, emphasizes the importance of "pressing in" to hear God's word, especially during life's storms. Drawing on Psalm 30, the speaker highlights that while "weeping may stay for the night, rejoicing comes in the morning." He uses Jeremiah 17:7-8 to illustrate being rooted in God, comparing it to a tree planted by water that "does not fear when heat comes." The core of the message focuses on Mark Chapter 4, verses 1-34, where Jesus teaches in parables. The speaker repeatedly points out Jesus's imperative to "listen" and "pay attention," noting that this isn't just passive hearing but "biblical hearing" that leads to action and transformation. He discusses the Parable of the Sower, explaining the different types of soil—path, rocky ground, thorns, and good soil—as representing various responses to the word. He also touches on the Parable of the Lamp and the Parable of the Mustard Seed, emphasizing that God is the one who grows the kingdom, often in ways we don't understand. The speaker encourages listeners to ask questions, noting that even Jesus's disciples didn't always understand the parables (Mark 4:10). He addresses Jesus's quote from Isaiah 6:9-10, interpreting it as a rebuke to those who refuse to hear and repent. The sermon concludes by stressing that spiritual growth is a slow, continuous process, comparing it to physical growth and quoting 2 Corinthians on being "transformed into the same image from one degree of Glory to another."https://www.youtube.com/embed/xAbKSm7cflc5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/Sp0Ykb_9bHo2023-07-17T03:02:36.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Sp0Ykb_9bHo/hqdefault.jpgThe Kingdom of God: Serve and SufferThis teaching continues in Mark's gospel, focusing on the good news that the kingdom of God is here and motivates believers to serve. The speaker references Mark chapter 10, stating that whoever would be great must be a servant, and whoever would be first must be a slave of all, because the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many. The message emphasizes that the kingdom of God is near, not just a future hope, and that living in this kingdom now is Jesus's message. The sermon discusses Jesus's teaching that the Son of Man must suffer, be rejected, killed, and rise again after three days, as found in Mark 8:31. Peter rebukes Jesus for this, and Jesus calls him "Satan" because Peter is focused on human things, not God's. Jesus then invites anyone who would follow him to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him, stating that whoever saves their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for Jesus's sake and the gospel will save it. This "cross-shaped discipleship" means dying to oneself so that the good news of the kingdom of God can flow through the power of the Holy Spirit into the lives of others. The speaker highlights the contrast between the world's view of greatness and Jesus's definition, which is service. He notes that Mark's gospel reinforces this teaching, structuring it to show that entrance into the kingdom of God involves a life of suffering, similar to the Messiah's, on the way to a final destination. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that becoming a transformed person requires entering the kingdom of God by following Christ, and encourages listeners to ask themselves daily, "Where do I need to die so that I can serve?"https://www.youtube.com/embed/Sp0Ykb_9bHo5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/5IgesLP9vmU2023-07-31T02:52:34.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/5IgesLP9vmU/hqdefault.jpgJesus' Kingship in Mark's GospelThis sermon concludes a series on Mark's gospel, focusing on the kingship of Jesus. The speaker emphasizes that the good news is lived out under authority, and that Jesus' kingship is highlighted throughout Mark, from chapter 1, verse 15, where Jesus declares the kingdom of God is at hand, to the paradoxical coronation on the cross described in Mark chapter 14 through 16, specifically Mark chapter 15, verse 21. The speaker notes that Mark's gospel ends abruptly at 16:8, emphasizing the resurrection. The sermon discusses Jesus' authority, demonstrated in over 50 instances in Mark's gospel, including healing, control over the demonic, nature, and the future. A key example is from Mark chapter 2, where Jesus forgives the paralytic's sins before healing him, demonstrating his authority to forgive sins. The speaker contrasts this with the human heart, which Jeremiah describes as deceitful above all things and desperately sick, and Mark chapter 7 lists evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness as things that come from within and defile a person. The speaker encourages listeners to live surrendered lives under Jesus' authority, like servants or slaves to a master, finding freedom in this surrender. The sermon concludes with a call to remember Jesus' sacrifice through communion, referencing the Passover meal where Jesus took bread and wine, and to pray "Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on Earth as it is in heaven," as taught in another gospel.https://www.youtube.com/embed/5IgesLP9vmU5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/Stgs0VpgBWI2023-08-07T02:53:50.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Stgs0VpgBWI/hqdefault.jpgSupernatural: A Biblical Worldview from ExodusThis teaching kicks off a new series, "Supernatural: A Biblical Worldview from Exodus," focusing on how a follower of Jesus finds hope in knowing who God is and what he says. The speaker introduces the series by reading Exodus chapter 15, emphasizing the Lord as strength, song, and salvation. The sermon then delves into Exodus chapter 5, where Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh, who declares, "Who is the Lord that I should obey his voice and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord." This encounter leads to increased burdens for the Israelites, causing them to question Moses and Aaron, and Moses to question God, asking, "Oh Lord, why have you done evil to this people?" The speaker contrasts a typical cultural worldview, where hope is in one's ability to overcome obstacles and achieve desires, with a "with God" worldview, which adds God to that equation. He argues that neither of these is a biblical worldview. Instead, a biblical worldview, as revealed in God's story, is that "my hope is in knowing who God is and what he says," emphasizing a deep, relational knowing. The speaker highlights that neither conflict nor success are indicators of alignment with God's purposes, challenging the idea that success means God is on our side and conflict means he is not. He also notes that both God's people and his opposition may be confused by God's actions or inactions. The solution presented is to "live relationally connected to Jesus," as we cannot trust what we see or feel. The speaker references Exodus 6:1, where the Lord tells Moses, "Now you shall see what I will do to Pharaoh," but cautions against "Bible abuse" by claiming this as a personal promise, instead emphasizing that God has promised Jesus. The consistent theme in Exodus is that "Yahweh will be known," both by the Egyptians and the Israelites, and ultimately by people through all eternity as the God of Salvation. The message concludes by encouraging listeners to actively engage in spiritual disciplines and community involvement to cultivate this biblical worldvihttps://www.youtube.com/embed/Stgs0VpgBWI5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/Yx7L7BHTZwA2023-08-14T03:25:52.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Yx7L7BHTZwA/hqdefault.jpgYahweh: God of Salvation in ExodusThis teaching continues the "Supernatural: A Biblical Worldview from Exodus" series, focusing on Yahweh as the God of Salvation to all who believe. The speaker, Tim, introduces Pearson Fletcher, who shares her testimony and is baptized, stating her belief that Jesus is God's son, died for her sins, and her commitment to trust and follow Him. The sermon then moves into Exodus chapter 6, where God tells Moses, "Now you shall see what I will do to Pharaoh." The speaker addresses an apparent contradiction regarding God revealing His name, Yahweh, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, yet stating He did not make Himself known by that name to them. Three solutions are presented: Yahweh as a new name revealed to Moses, Yahweh's name being known but given new meaning, or a grammatical solution emphasizing a rhetorical question, "Did I not make myself known as Yahweh?" The speaker states his belief that the grammatical case is the most compelling. The core of Exodus 6:2-8 is highlighted by the repeated phrase "I am the Lord" and seven "I will" statements, emphasizing God's intention to bring salvation to the Israelites. The central "I will" statement is "I will take you to be my people." The speaker connects this to God's mission beginning in Genesis chapter 12 with Abraham, where God promises to bless him and make him a blessing to "all the families of the Earth." The teaching emphasizes that Yahweh is first and foremost the God of Salvation, even though He is also the God of judgment. The message concludes with Exodus chapter 7, where God tells Moses He has made him "like God to Pharaoh" and will harden Pharaoh's heart. Moses and Aaron perform a miracle, turning Aaron's staff into a serpent, which then swallows the serpents created by Pharaoh's wise men and sorcerers. The speaker stresses that the supernatural world is as real as the natural world, and that new life in Christ is a supernatural act of God. The sermon ends by inviting listeners to "grab a hold of the salvation that Jesus has for us."https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yx7L7BHTZwA5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/ct6Et5UQgBM2023-08-21T02:53:56.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/ct6Et5UQgBM/hqdefault.jpgSupernatural: God's Power in ExodusThis teaching continues the "Supernatural" series from Exodus, focusing on how God will be known by his power. The speaker references Paul's letter to the Colossians, stating that Jesus is the image of the invisible God, through whom all things were created and in whom all things hold together. The sermon emphasizes that God's power is revealed through natural revelation, such as the immensity of the ocean, and through supernatural power, which brings dead people back to life. The message delves into the Exodus narrative, specifically the plagues, which are described as "supernatural signs and wonders" or "strikes" against Egypt. The speaker highlights Pharaoh's initial response in Exodus chapter 5 verse 1, "I don't know the Lord and moreover I'm not let Israel go." The plagues are presented as God's way of revealing himself to Pharaoh and the Egyptians. The first nine plagues are grouped into three triads, each with a distinct pattern: the first of each triad (blood, frogs, gnats) begins in the morning by the Nile, the second (flies, livestock, boils) involves Moses confronting Pharaoh in his house, and the third (hail, locusts, darkness) occurs without warning. The speaker notes that the magicians of Egypt were able to replicate the first two plagues but failed with the gnats, stating, "This is the hand of God." The sermon also discusses the concept of "decreation," where God takes order and speaks chaos into it to demonstrate his rule and authority over creation. This is seen as a direct strike against the religious understanding of Egyptian culture, particularly their gods. The speaker addresses the difficult passage where "the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart," acknowledging the tension between God's sovereignty and human free will, and suggests that God sometimes gives people over to the desires of their hearts to show them the futility of those desires. The teaching concludes by emphasizing that God requires a faith-filled response from all people and that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to follow Jesus.https://www.youtube.com/embed/ct6Et5UQgBM5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/al37--mulPg2023-08-28T03:07:39.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/al37--mulPg/hqdefault.jpgThe Supernatural Passover: Exodus 12This teaching, part of the "Supernatural" series from Exodus, focuses on how knowing God means remembering His salvation through judgment. The speaker explains that God judges rebellion because it is who He is, but He also provides salvation in the midst of that judgment. This is illustrated through the Passover narrative in Exodus chapter 12, where God tells Moses and Aaron to instruct the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb and put its blood on their doorposts so that the Destroyer will pass over their homes when striking the firstborn in Egypt. The speaker emphasizes that the word "Passover" signifies God's protection, not just skipping over. The sermon discusses the nature of spiritual beings, noting that the word "Elohim" in the Bible refers to spiritual beings, whether God with a capital G or other gods with a small g. The speaker suggests that while these other spiritual beings are real, they are not comparable in power to the God of the Bible. He theorizes that in North America, the spiritual realm often masquerades itself through the pursuit of success, education, and material possessions, leading people to believe they don't need God. The speaker connects the Passover lamb to Jesus as the final sacrificial lamb, referencing John the Baptist's statement, "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." He explains that Jesus fulfills the sacrificial system and that salvation comes through trusting God, just as the Israelites trusted God's instruction during the first Passover. The sermon concludes by referencing Paul's letter to the church in Corinth, discussing sexual immorality and the concept of "leaven" (sin) in the church, and calling believers to live lives of holiness, set apart for God's purposes. The teaching ends with a communion service, remembering Jesus' body and blood as the ultimate Passover sacrifice.https://www.youtube.com/embed/al37--mulPg5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/NUttHDoKx3g2023-09-04T02:57:35.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/NUttHDoKx3g/hqdefault.jpgSupernatural: God's Salvation Through Judgment (Exodus 12)This teaching continues the "Supernatural" series, emphasizing that to know God, one must experience His salvation. The speaker, Mark, introduces the sermon by referencing Psalm 105, urging listeners to give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name, and make known His deeds. The sermon then transitions to Dave, who focuses on Exodus chapter 12, specifically verses 29-36, and later Exodus chapter 13, verses 1-3 and 14-16. Dave explains that God is known by His power, as demonstrated through the nine plagues in Egypt, which showed His supremacy over other gods. He highlights that God's salvation often comes through judgment, as seen in the tenth plague where the firstborn were struck down. The Israelites were saved by following God's instructions for Passover, painting blood on their doorposts, and eating unleavened bread with their sandals on, ready to leave. This act of belief, even when it didn't make sense, led to their protection and freedom from slavery. The sermon concludes by stressing the importance of sharing one's personal story of salvation. Dave argues that while trusting Jesus is a personal decision, it was never meant to be private. He encourages listeners to tell their stories, not as a boast about themselves, but as a testament to what God has done. He also urges curiosity, asking others about their salvation stories, as this act of sharing and listening helps everyone remember and celebrate God's work.https://www.youtube.com/embed/NUttHDoKx3g5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/rhC-R4u_Nec2023-09-11T03:06:49.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/rhC-R4u_Nec/hqdefault.jpgSupernatural: Knowing God Through His PowerThis sermon, part of the "Supernatural" series, focuses on the idea that to know God, faith must be based on His supernatural power. The speaker references Psalm 118 and the book of Exodus, specifically chapters 13 and 14, to illustrate God's desire for His people to know Him. He recounts the story of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, highlighting the ten plagues and God's supernatural guidance through a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. The narrative details the Israelites' fear and panic when Pharaoh's army pursues them, and Moses's instruction to "fear not, stand firm, see the salvation of the Lord." The speaker emphasizes the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground while the Egyptians are engulfed. He points to Exodus 14:31, where "Israel saw the great power that the Lord had used against the Egyptians, so the people feared the Lord and they believed in the Lord and in his servant Moses," as the culmination of God's efforts to reveal Himself. The sermon connects this Old Testament account to the New Testament, mentioning Hebrews chapter 11, and draws parallels to the supernatural work of God in the lives of believers today, including the incarnation of Jesus, His perfect life, His death on the cross for the sins of the world, His resurrection, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The speaker encourages listeners to identify their "next step" in faith, acknowledging that God is fighting for them to know, trust, and follow Him.https://www.youtube.com/embed/rhC-R4u_Nec5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/sgn9ruoBN0U2023-09-18T02:52:41.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/sgn9ruoBN0U/hqdefault.jpgExodus 15: Remembering God's Salvation and ProvisionThis teaching from Exodus 15 emphasizes that to know God, we must celebrate His supernatural salvation in worship, or we will forget. The speaker highlights that worship involves remembering, celebrating, and telling God's story, not just singing songs. He notes that the first five books of the Bible were recorded after the events to help God's people remember who He is and what He has done. The sermon explores Exodus 15, beginning with the song of Moses and the Israelites after their exit from Egypt. The speaker explains that biblical poetry, like this song, uses figurative language but remains true. He points out that the song describes God as the Victor, strength, and salvation, and refers to Yahweh as a "man of war" or "warrior," a theme seen in Psalm 24 and Revelation 19, where Jesus is depicted as the Divine Warrior. The "right hand of God" is presented as a symbol of power, linking back to the supernatural God of the Exodus. The speaker discusses how the song in Exodus 15 is both a recounting of past events and a prophecy of future events, including the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and the establishment of a temple. He connects this to the Christian hope of a resurrected people on a resurrected Earth with a resurrected Jesus. The passage then describes the Israelites' grumbling at Marah (meaning "bitter") when they found no water, and God's provision by healing the water. The speaker cautions against misinterpreting verse 26, "I am the Lord your healer," as a promise of physical healing for all, explaining it within the context of the Old Covenant. He concludes by drawing attention to the significance of the "12 Springs of water and 70 palm trees" at Elim, interpreting "12" as Israel and "70" as the Nations, signifying God's plan to bless all peoples.https://www.youtube.com/embed/sgn9ruoBN0U5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/vskOFm781HQ2023-09-25T02:54:44.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/vskOFm781HQ/hqdefault.jpgReconstruction: Building Faith on RelationshipThis sermon, part of the "Reconstruction: Building Faith on Relationship" series, continues in the book of Exodus, focusing on the idea that faith is built on knowing God can be trusted in everything. The speaker, Tim, introduces the series by discussing the need to rebuild faith on the truth of God's word, challenging the common misconception of the Old Testament God as solely wrathful, and emphasizing that Yahweh in the Old Testament is Jesus put on flesh. He argues that approaching a relationship with Jesus with suspicion, based on past disappointments, will lead to further disappointment. The message then delves into Exodus chapter 15 and 16, highlighting the Israelites' journey into the wilderness and their tests of trust. The speaker notes three tests: what to drink, what to eat, and again, what to drink. He points out the Israelites' grumbling and their failure to follow God's instructions regarding the manna, which they called "what is it." The speaker connects this to the idea that life in a broken world is the test, and that God was tangibly present with the Israelites in the wilderness, just as he is in our own "chaos land." He shares a personal story about a friend named Lanny to illustrate how God uses difficult experiences to draw us closer. The sermon then transitions to John chapter 6, where Jesus declares himself to be the "bread of life" and the "living bread," intentionally referencing the manna in the wilderness. Jesus also states, "whoever believes in me shall never thirst." The speaker emphasizes that Jesus is God's provision and all that we need, connecting his death and resurrection to this provision. He clarifies that "daily bread" in prayer refers to trusting God with all of life's provisions, not just a daily word from God. The sermon concludes by highlighting the distinction between Old Testament believers and New Testament believers: the indwelling Holy Spirit empowers us to live out our relationship with God in a way the Israelites could not. The speaker encourages listeners to refhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/vskOFm781HQ5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/6bRWCZ6yQdo2023-10-02T03:01:34.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/6bRWCZ6yQdo/hqdefault.jpgReconstruction: Representing God to the WorldThis sermon, part of the "Reconstruction: Building Faith on Relationship" series, focuses on the purpose of God's people: to represent Him to the world. Drawing from Exodus chapter 19, the speaker highlights God's clarity in defining His relationship with Israel, emphasizing that He saved them to represent Him. This is not because they were "good people," but in response to His saving act, as seen in His deliverance "On Eagle's Wings" and His remembrance of the Abrahamic Covenant from Genesis chapter 12, verses 1-3. The speaker notes that this covenant, which promises blessing to Abraham and his offspring (Galatians chapter 3 identifies Christ as this offspring), was always intended to bless "all the families of the Earth." The speaker connects this Old Testament understanding to the New Testament, specifically First Peter chapter 2, where Peter uses similar language to describe believers as a "chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession." This identity means believers are "priests" who represent God to the world, a role that is "never not" present. The sermon stresses that holiness is a status given by God through Christ's blood, not something earned, and calls believers to live in response to this given holiness by putting away "malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and Envy in all slander" and longing for "pure spiritual milk." The message concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace their identity as God's representatives, emphasizing that this is a collective calling for the church. It challenges individuals to consider where God is calling them to join the "household of faith" and to live honorably, allowing the Holy Spirit to empower them to move away from things that hinder their representation of Christ.https://www.youtube.com/embed/6bRWCZ6yQdo5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/IJ3HnAfNwJM2023-10-23T02:55:15.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/IJ3HnAfNwJM/hqdefault.jpgReconstruction: Building Faith on RelationshipsThis message continues the "Reconstruction: Building Faith on Relationships" series, focusing on how faith is built on experiencing Jesus's reconciliation and renewal, even in moments of faithlessness. The speaker references Psalm 105, encouraging listeners to give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name, make known His deeds, sing praises, tell of His wondrous works, glory in His holy name, and seek the Lord and His strength continually. The message also includes a time of prayer, framed by Psalm 117, which states, "Praise the Lord, all nations! Extol him, all peoples! For great is his steadfast love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord!" The speaker clarifies that "nations" in this context refers to people and people groups, not modern geopolitical borders. The sermon then delves into Exodus 32-34, emphasizing that it is a theological story revealing God's character and how He works, rather than a chronological historical account. It highlights the Israelites' rebellion with the golden calf while Moses was on Mount Sinai for 40 days and 40 nights, receiving instructions for the Tabernacle and Sabbath. Moses intercedes for the people, reminding God of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Israel. The speaker notes that "the Lord relented from the disaster that he had spoken of bringing on his people" (Exodus 32:14), prompting reflection on God's unchanging nature and His response to intercession. The message connects Moses's role as an intermediary to Jesus, who is presented as the ultimate intermediary bringing reconciliation and renewal. The speaker discusses the renewal of the covenant, Moses's shining face after speaking with God, and how this points to Jesus. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 3, the speaker explains that the old covenant, carved on stone tablets, had glory but was temporary, while the new covenant, written on human hearts by the Spirit, brings even greater glory and freedom. This freedom allows believers, with unveiled faces, to behold the glory of the Lord ahttps://www.youtube.com/embed/IJ3HnAfNwJM5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/QsZuWYgr89g2023-11-06T03:53:55.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/QsZuWYgr89g/hqdefault.jpgLife on Full: The Lord Is My ShepherdThis sermon, titled "Life on Full," begins a new series on Psalm 23, emphasizing that a full life is experienced when Jesus is leading. The speaker references Jesus' statement in John 10:10, "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly," connecting it to David's words in Psalm 23:1, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." The speaker explains that the metaphor of a shepherd in ancient times represented royalty, authority, and power, not just a menial worker. He highlights that David, a king and shepherd, wrote Psalm 23 towards the end of his life, reflecting on both tragedy and triumph, and declaring his complete trust in Yahweh. The sermon connects Jesus as the Good Shepherd in John 10 to the imagery of Psalm 23, noting that Jesus lays down his life for the sheep. The speaker argues that "we get in the way" of living a full life, often due to faulty theology or beliefs about God. He encourages aligning one's thoughts with who Jesus says he is, not who we think or feel he is, referencing John 17 where Jesus prays that people would know God and Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes by urging listeners to choose to follow Jesus, engage in spiritual disciplines like reading the Bible, and live a life so full that it impacts others, citing Psalm 16:11, "In your presence there is fullness of joy."https://www.youtube.com/embed/QsZuWYgr89g5098https://my.truevi.com/watch/E4w_6KVmAtU2023-11-13T03:57:07.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/E4w_6KVmAtU/hqdefault.jpgLife on Full: Jesus Our Provider (John 10:10)This sermon, part of the "Life on Full: Living Psalm 23" series, focuses on the idea that we can experience a full life when Jesus is our provider. The speaker, Dave, references John 10:10, where Jesus states, "I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly." He emphasizes that this abundant life is for the "here and now," not just in heaven. The sermon uses Psalm 23 as a guide, with a particular focus on verses 1-3, which describe the Lord as a shepherd who provides rest, leads to still waters, and restores the soul. The core message revolves around trust, drawing from Dallas Willard's book "Life Without Lack." The speaker argues that trust is the key to receiving God's sufficiency and that it requires believing Jesus will lead us. He contrasts our easy trust in technology, like a smartphone's GPS, with our struggle to trust Jesus, who "created me" and "knows all things." He suggests that our true internal cry is often, "I am my own leader and I know what I need to make my life work," driven by "infinite desire" that is never truly satisfied. The sermon then explores three types of trust, as outlined by Dallas Willard: the "trust of propriety," where we expect God to act rightly because we do; the "trust of desperation," which arises when everything crumbles and we have nowhere else to turn; and the "trust of sufficiency," where we realize that "it doesn't matter I have God and that's all I need." The speaker encourages listeners to engage with God by asking, "Where are you calling me to trust you as my provision?" and to practice daily faithfulness to prepare for moments of desperation.https://www.youtube.com/embed/E4w_6KVmAtU5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/WoL-rDPQ9642023-11-27T04:12:12.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/WoL-rDPQ964/hqdefault.jpgLife on Full: Dwelling With JesusThis teaching concludes the "Life on Full: Living Psalm 23" series, emphasizing that a full life is experienced when dwelling with Jesus. The speaker reads Psalm 23, highlighting themes of not lacking anything, restoration of the soul, and dwelling in the house of the Lord forever. He argues that "dwelling in the house of the Lord forever" refers to experiencing God's presence now, not just in heaven, drawing on the Old Testament understanding of the "house of the Lord" as the temple, where heaven meets earth. The speaker defines dwelling with Jesus in three ways: living in God's kingdom, discipleship, and requiring engagement. Living in God's kingdom means living under the reign and authority of Jesus, as described in Mark chapter 1 where Jesus proclaimed the kingdom of God is at hand and called people to repent and believe. Discipleship is presented as an apprenticeship to Jesus, learning from him and being transformed to do his work, exemplified by Corrie ten Boom's life. Finally, dwelling with Jesus requires intentional engagement, not automatic experience. The speaker notes that even Jesus intentionally engaged with God through prayer and scripture. He encourages listeners to make a plan to engage with Jesus daily, emphasizing that grace is not opposed to effort but to earning, and that Jesus' yoke is easy and his burden is light, as stated in Matthew 11. The teaching concludes with communion, remembering Jesus' body broken and his blood shed for a new covenant.https://www.youtube.com/embed/WoL-rDPQ9645100https://my.truevi.com/watch/XS4eRIbrl0Y2023-12-04T04:26:27.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/XS4eRIbrl0Y/hqdefault.jpgChristmas Songs: Psalms Pointing to JesusThis teaching begins a new series called "Christmas Songs: Psalms Pointing to Jesus," emphasizing that Christmas songs point to a wonderful life with Jesus. The speaker references Matthew's gospel, specifically the angel's message to Joseph about Mary conceiving from the Holy Spirit and bearing a son named Jesus, who will save his people from their sins. This fulfills the prophecy that "the Virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel, which means God With Us." The message focuses on Psalms 1 and 2, presented as an introduction to the entire book of Psalms and the gospel itself. Psalm 1 describes two ways of life: the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. The blessed person delights in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night, and is compared to a tree planted by streams of water that prospers. The wicked are like chaff driven away by the wind. Psalm 2 then defines the anointed one as the answer to the righteous life, where the blessed find refuge in Christ. The speaker explains that the "most wonderful life" is revealed in God's loving instruction, found by delighting in and meditating on God's word, or Torah. This leads to a renewal of what life would have been like in Eden. Psalm 2 describes nations raging against the Lord and his anointed, but God laughs at their derision. God has set his king on Zion, his holy hill, and declares, "You are my son; today I have begotten you." This son will receive the nations as his heritage. The Psalm concludes by urging kings and rulers to be wise, serve the Lord with fear, and "kiss the Son" lest they perish, emphasizing that "blessed are all those who take refuge in him." The speaker connects this "anointed one" to Jesus, citing Acts chapter 4 and Acts chapter 13, which directly quote Psalm 2 and apply it to Jesus' resurrection. The message concludes with an invitation to find refuge in Jesus through surrender.https://www.youtube.com/embed/XS4eRIbrl0Y5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/lk3YFJka1pI2023-12-11T04:04:16.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/lk3YFJka1pI/hqdefault.jpgPsalm 8: What is the Chief End of Man?This sermon, part of the "Christmas Songs Psalms pointing to Jesus" series, explores humanity's purpose through Psalm chapter 8. The speaker highlights King David's reflection on creation, the moon, and stars, and how God crowned humans with "Glory and Honor" and gave them "dominion over the works of your hands," as seen in Genesis 1:26-28. This purpose, to be God's representatives and image bearers, was broken by sin in Genesis chapter 3, where humans sought to "make a name for ourselves." The message emphasizes that God, in Genesis 3:15, promised a solution through "The Offspring of a human being," which Pastor and Professor James Hamilton described as God answering "Satan's triumphant Roar with a baby's cry." The author of Hebrews chapter 2 explicitly states that Psalm 8 refers to Jesus, the "new Adam" who lived perfectly what the first Adam could not. Colossians 1:15-20 further describes Jesus as "the image of the invisible God" and the one through whom "all things were created" and reconciled. The speaker argues that Christmas reestablishes our purpose through faith in Jesus, allowing us to be God's image bearers again. This is not a "checklist to do" but "a life to be lived" by the "power of the holy spirit." He uses the metaphor of wakeboarding to illustrate that following Jesus can be "fun" and enjoyable, even with crashes, because Jesus, like a good boat driver, "turns that boat around" and encourages us to "get back out there." The sermon concludes by referencing the Westminster Catechism's first question, "What is the chief end of man?" and its answer: "to glorify God and enjoy him forever," encouraging listeners to ask Jesus, "where are you calling me to represent you?" in their daily lives.https://www.youtube.com/embed/lk3YFJka1pI5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/f_vdBwrio642023-12-25T04:01:08.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/f_vdBwrio64/hqdefault.jpgJoy in Jesus: A Christmas Celebration from Psalm 16This message concludes a series on "Christmas songs" (Psalms) pointing to Jesus, focusing on how these songs lead to celebrating a joy-filled life with Jesus. The speaker references Matthew chapter 2, where wise men from the East come to Jerusalem seeking the newborn King of the Jews after seeing His star. The sermon emphasizes that actively celebrating Jesus's presence restores joy, even when circumstances, bad attitudes, or "Grinchy people" try to steal it. The teaching then delves into Psalm 16, described as a "miktam of David," where David finds refuge in God and declares, "I have no good apart from you." The psalm speaks of delight in the saints, sorrows for those who follow other gods, and God as David's chosen portion and inheritance. It highlights that in God's presence, there is "fullness of joy" and "pleasures forevermore." The speaker clarifies that in the Bible, "happiness," "joy," and "blessedness" are interchangeable and not based on circumstances. The connection between Psalm 16 and Christmas is explored through the book of Acts, where both Peter and Paul link this Psalm to Jesus. Specifically, in Acts chapter 2, Peter quotes Psalm 16 to explain that David, though dead, prophesied about Jesus, the Holy One who would not see corruption. The sermon concludes by encouraging celebration as a spiritual practice, emphasizing that Christmas celebrates not just the birth of a king, but also the resurrection and return of a king, and that the active presence of Jesus is the true gift bringing joy.https://www.youtube.com/embed/f_vdBwrio645105https://my.truevi.com/watch/CTqHrW-hPUM2024-01-08T04:03:36.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/CTqHrW-hPUM/hqdefault.jpgConfidence: The Bible, God's Story Leading to JesusThis teaching begins a new series called "Confidence," aiming to provide a basic foundation on what the Bible is, where it came from, and why it matters. The speaker emphasizes that the Bible is God's story leading to Jesus, and that each person has a part in being and making "word dependent followers of Jesus." Hebrews 4:12 is cited: "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." The Living Word of God is identified as Jesus. The speaker outlines the vision of Two Rivers Church, which includes being rooted in a gospel-centered community, actively pursuing God, experiencing the Holy Spirit's power, deepening love for Jesus and one another, and making the gospel real to neighbors. The church aims by 2032 to impact a nine-county region of over 1 million people through gospel-centered initiatives. The core values of Two Rivers Church are described as gospel-centered, word dependent, Spirit empowered, and relationally connected. The speaker clarifies that "word dependent" means believing the Bible is how to live, and "Spirit empowered" refers to the Holy Spirit's work in making the Bible alive. These two values are presented as 100% word dependent and 100% Spirit empowered, not 50/50. The teaching defines the word of God as first and foremost a person, Jesus, the Living Word. References are made to the author of Hebrews, who states God spoke through His Son, and John 1, which says, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God," and "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." The written word, a collection of 66 books, is presented as the means by which we know the Living Word, Jesus. The speaker encourages building confidence in the written word of God to gain a deeper understanding of Jesus. Drawing from 2 Peter 1:12-15, the speaker discusses Peter's intention to remind believers of truths they already know, emphasizing thttps://www.youtube.com/embed/CTqHrW-hPUM5109https://my.truevi.com/watch/UNMsXKYBVXs2024-01-15T03:57:56.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/UNMsXKYBVXs/hqdefault.jpgConfidence: Scripture Points to JesusThis teaching, part of a series called "Confidence," focuses on building confidence in Jesus by understanding the written word of God. The speaker emphasizes that followers of Jesus believe God has given us the scriptures to lead us to Jesus, drawing on Paul's letter to the church in Corinth where he writes about connecting God's story to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. The speaker quotes 1 Corinthians 15:3-5, stating that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, was buried, and was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures. The sermon explores what "in accordance with the scriptures" means, clarifying that it refers to the overall story and themes within the Old Testament, not specific chapter and verse references for Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection on the third day. Examples of the "third day" theme are given from Abraham and Isaac, Joseph's story, Exodus 19, the prophet Hosea, and the prophet Jonah. The speaker introduces three key concepts for the series: inspiration, authority, and inerrancy, focusing this week on inspiration. He challenges the idea of "divine dictation" for scripture, instead proposing a "verbal plenary" view where God worked through human authors and processes over time, using their experiences to craft the message. This is supported by 2 Timothy 3:16, which states "all scripture is breathed out by God," and 2 Peter 1:21, which says "men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." The first time God tells someone to write something down is in Exodus 17, when Moses is instructed to write about Amalek. The speaker provides a timeline of biblical development, starting with Egyptian hieroglyphics around 3000 BC, the development of an alphabet by 1700 BC, and the Exodus (either 1400 or 1200 BC). He discusses the emergence of the Hebrew language by 1000 BC and how Jesus referred to the scriptures as "the law, the prophets, and the Psalms." The Septuagint, a Greek translation of the Old Testament, is discussed, noting its usehttps://www.youtube.com/embed/UNMsXKYBVXs5098https://my.truevi.com/watch/RkQnuDtPIto2024-01-22T03:57:53.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/RkQnuDtPIto/hqdefault.jpgThe New Testament: Foundation for Following JesusThis sermon, part of the "Confidence" series, focuses on the Greek New Testament, building on last week's discussion of the Hebrew Bible. The speaker emphasizes that by faith, scripture reveals Jesus as the completion of God's story. He notes that while we don't have original copies of the Greek New Testament, Jesus himself read the Hebrew scriptures, as seen in Luke 4:16-21, where he reads from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 61) and declares its fulfillment. The New Testament, written over approximately 50 years (roughly 50 AD to 100 AD), consists of 27 books organized by genre: four gospels, a history book (Acts), 21 letters (Epistles), and one apocalyptic book (Revelation). The speaker clarifies that the New Testament was not chosen centuries later, but rather its writings were received as sacred from the beginning, with Paul referring to the foundation of the apostles and prophets in Ephesians 2:19-22, and Peter referring to Paul's writings as scripture in 2 Peter 3:16. The speaker addresses the process of copying manuscripts, acknowledging unintentional and intentional errors, but asserts confidence that we have the scriptures God intended. He compares the 5,500 New Testament manuscripts to Homer's Iliad (650 manuscripts) to highlight the abundance of evidence. He concludes that these authoritative and trustworthy writings are our foundation for following Jesus, urging listeners to build their lives on Jesus, the Cornerstone, as described in Matthew 7.https://www.youtube.com/embed/RkQnuDtPIto5110https://my.truevi.com/watch/TdSDfnOebPU2024-01-29T03:54:47.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/TdSDfnOebPU/hqdefault.jpgThe Bible's Foundation and AuthorityThis message concludes a series on confidence, focusing on the Bible's foundation, origin, and significance, ultimately pointing to Jesus. The speaker emphasizes that God's story centers on the life, death, resurrection, and return of Jesus, referencing Colossians chapter two, which describes God making us alive with Christ, forgiving trespasses, and triumphing over rulers and authorities. The discussion reviews three key concepts: inspiration, authority, and inerrancy. Inspiration refers to God using people and processes under the Holy Spirit to give us scripture. Authority of scripture rests on Jesus, as he viewed the Old Testament as authoritative and commissioned the New Testament authors. Inerrancy is defined as the Bible being without error in its original writings and truthful in all that it teaches, acknowledging that some biblical phenomena, like hyperbolic numbers or observational descriptions, are not errors when understood within their original purpose and context. The speaker addresses questions about different books in various faith traditions, explaining the historical development of the Septuagint, the Latin Vulgate, and the Protestant Reformation's emphasis on the Hebrew Bible and Greek New Testament. The message also covers why people interpret the Bible differently, the need for interpretation, distinguishing between messages for original audiences and today, the use of source texts by biblical authors (citing Luke and Old Testament references like the Book of Jasher and histories of prophets), and historical access to scriptures. Finally, the speaker discusses Bible translations, recommending the ESV, NIV, CSB, NLT, and Tanakh, and encourages using study Bibles from different translations. The message concludes with communion, a tangible reminder of Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and return.https://www.youtube.com/embed/TdSDfnOebPU5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/g0vL4upm8dE2024-02-19T04:17:02.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/g0vL4upm8dE/hqdefault.jpgJude: Building on a Firm FoundationThis teaching begins a two-week series on the letter of Jude, emphasizing that following Jesus requires a deep foundation. The speaker references Paul's second letter to Timothy, stating that "God's Firm Foundation stands bearing this seal: The Lord knows those who are his." He also cites Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapter 7, where Jesus speaks of building a house on the rock versus on the sand. Jude, identifying himself as a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James, writes to those "called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ." He urges them to "contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints" because "ungodly people" have "crept in unnoticed," perverting "the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only master and Lord Jesus Christ." The speaker explains that Jude is addressing people within the church who teach that actions can be disconnected from belief, or that "Grace is free, live however you want to live." He clarifies that Jude is not talking about Roman culture or a Jewish revolt, but about guarding hearts and minds against those who say "the grace of God doesn't change how you live." Jude provides three Old Testament examples of rebellion against God's authority: Jesus saving people out of Egypt and then destroying those who did not believe, angels who "did not stay within their own position of authority" and are kept in "Eternal chains," and Sodom and Gomorrah, which indulged in "sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire." The speaker notes that Jude refers to Jesus as the "Yahweh of the Exodus." He also points out Jude's allusions to Genesis 6:1-4, as presented in First Enoch, and to The Testament of Moses. Jude further warns against those who "blaspheme all that they do not understand" and who walk "in the way of Cain," abandon themselves to "Balam's heir," and perish in "Korah's Rebellion." He quotes Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesying the Lord's coming to execute judgment. The speaker concludes by stating that a deep foundation https://www.youtube.com/embed/g0vL4upm8dE5110https://my.truevi.com/watch/kq5yAhiCSss2024-02-26T04:01:57.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/kq5yAhiCSss/hqdefault.jpgBuilding on the Gospel: Word and Spirit DNAThis sermon continues a series on the book of Jude, emphasizing that followers of Jesus are not meant to follow Him alone. The speaker highlights the importance of "word and spirit DNA," which involves building lives on the Word of God as the Spirit breathes life into it. He reviews Jude's letter, noting that it addresses dangers within the community of faith, specifically those who "pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only master and Lord Jesus Christ" (Jude 4). This sensuality is described as casting off restraint and pursuing personal desires, a message that has "crept into the church." The solution presented in Jude 20-23 is to "build upon the gospel by the holy spirit's power demonstrating love for Jesus and others." This "word and spirit DNA" means being "word dependent" through active engagement with scripture, and "empowered by the spirit of God" by paying attention to the indwelling Holy Spirit. The speaker stresses that the "and" between word and spirit is crucial, as they cannot be separated. He references Jeremiah 31, where God promises a new covenant to write His law on hearts, indicating a transformation through the indwelling Holy Spirit. The sermon also discusses the "fruit of the spirit" from Galatians 5, emphasizing that it is a singular "fruit" encompassing "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." The speaker explains that Jude's commands are based on community, using "y'all" to highlight the collective nature of faith. He defines "the Most Holy Faith" (Jude 20) as the gospel itself, not personal faith, and calls for repentance and submission to Jesus as "master and Lord." The message concludes with a call to have mercy on those who doubt, save others by "snatching them out of the fire" (Jude 23), and show mercy with fear to those who may be "wolf in sheep's clothing." The ultimate hope is in Jesus, who is "able to keep you from stumbling" (Jude 24-25).https://www.youtube.com/embed/kq5yAhiCSss5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/T3QVmrUyyx02024-03-04T04:11:40.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/T3QVmrUyyx0/hqdefault.jpgLiving Out Truth in Love: A Study of 2 JohnThis teaching focuses on 2 John, a "powerful little letter" that defines a follower of Jesus as someone "living out the truth in love." The speaker notes that the truth is revealed through Jesus, referencing John chapter 14 where Jesus states, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." The sermon emphasizes that this letter, written to the church, calls believers to hold onto the truth and walk it out in love, especially in a politically charged season. The speaker breaks down 2 John, highlighting two requirements: walking in truth and walking in love. Walking in truth means living out the gospel, which includes grace, mercy, and peace. He distinguishes between weak teachers and false teachers, asserting that anyone who speaks "other than the deity and the supremacy of Christ is a false teacher," citing 2 John chapter 7. The speaker stresses that there is "no room for a differing opinion when it comes to the person and identity of Christ," and that the essentials of faith are critical. The second requirement is to walk in love, which is a command from Christ himself, as seen in John 13:34-35. The speaker presents four principles for walking out truth and love: it requires a relationship, a right motivation (focused on the other person's growth, not being "right"), meditating on God's story (being "saturated in the gospel"), and the Holy Spirit's power. He concludes by urging listeners to ask Jesus who needs to see His truth and love in them, and then to "live it out."https://www.youtube.com/embed/T3QVmrUyyx05100https://my.truevi.com/watch/bb3M67qv4bI2024-03-11T03:05:33.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/bb3M67qv4bI/hqdefault.jpgFaith-Filled Hospitality: Living Out 3 JohnThis teaching explores the concept of faith-filled hospitality as a defining characteristic of a follower of Jesus, drawing from the shortest of the little letters, Third John. The speaker emphasizes that hospitality is about living out the truth in love, as seen in Second John, and involves generosity and welcoming others, not just those we know or like. This is exemplified by Gaius in Third John, who welcomed traveling missionaries, and contrasted with Diotrephes, who liked to put himself first and refused to welcome brothers. The sermon highlights that true hospitality, as described in Philippians 2:3-4, requires humility, generosity, and love for others, and it will cost us something. It should extend beyond our homes to the church and community, especially in growing areas like Knoxville. The speaker argues that pride, with its scarcity mindset, prevents hospitality, while a faithful response trusts in Jesus' abundance. The message encourages listeners to imitate good examples of hospitality, like Demetrius in Third John, and to practice it repeatedly until it becomes second nature. It concludes by presenting hospitality as an intentional investment in relationships, a way to be a friend that points others to Jesus, and an attractive entry point for people to follow Christ. The speaker also shares a video about Aaron and Denise Bivfield, who exemplify this intentional investment in relationships through their missionary work in Berlin.https://www.youtube.com/embed/bb3M67qv4bI5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/v-fO6PctLzQ2024-03-11T05:26:29.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/v-fO6PctLzQ/hqdefault.jpgFaith-Filled Hospitality: 3 JohnThis teaching explores faith-filled hospitality as a defining characteristic of a follower of Jesus, drawing from the book of Third John. The speaker references Second John, which states, "this is love that we walk according to his Commandments." The message begins with baptism testimonies, where individuals share their personal journeys of faith and their decision to be immersed in water, symbolizing identification with Jesus in his life, death, and resurrection. The speaker then delves into Third John, a letter from John the Elder to Gaius. John commends Gaius for his hospitality to traveling missionaries, noting that Gaius is "walking in the truth" and demonstrating love. In contrast, John criticizes Diotrephes, who "likes to put himself first" and refuses to welcome brothers, even putting them out of the church. Demetrius is presented as another positive example. The speaker emphasizes that hospitality is more than just having people over for dinner; it is a disposition of generosity and welcoming, as described in Philippians chapter 2, verses 3 and 4, which encourages humility and looking out for the interests of others. The teaching highlights that hospitality will always cost something, often taking individuals out of their comfort zones. It should be practiced in homes, churches, and communities, reflecting the welcome Jesus extended to us. Pride is identified as a faithless response that prevents hospitality, as it prioritizes self and refuses to acknowledge God's authority. The speaker reminds listeners that as followers of Jesus, we are "not our own" but were "bought with a price," as stated in 1 Corinthians chapter 6, verses 19 and 20. Jesus is presented as the ultimate model of hospitality, and believers are encouraged to imitate good examples, as Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "be imitators of me as I am of Christ." The message concludes with a call to ask Jesus who in our lives exemplifies hospitality and what we can learn from them.https://www.youtube.com/embed/v-fO6PctLzQ5095https://my.truevi.com/watch/jXzvkgy65ds2024-03-25T03:01:14.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/jXzvkgy65ds/hqdefault.jpgPalm Sunday: Jesus Is Faithful In Our QuestionsThis Palm Sunday, the sermon continues the "Easter Songs" series, focusing on Psalm 22, which the speaker notes is quoted by Jesus on the cross. The speaker highlights that Psalm 22 moves from a cry of abandonment to worldwide celebration, with the "middle" representing where believers live and find their footing. The big idea is that Jesus is faithful even in the midst of our questions. The speaker identifies several truths emerging from Psalm 22: Jesus experienced feeling abandoned on the cross, crying out "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" as recorded in Mark at the ninth hour. This abandonment, the speaker explains, was due to taking on the sin of the world, not his own sin, unlike David's experience where sin separated him from God. Another truth is that Jesus was mocked for his obedience, as seen in John 19 where soldiers cast lots for his garments, fulfilling scripture. The speaker also notes that Jesus models deep trust in suffering, as evidenced by his prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, "Father, if it be your will, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." Finally, the speaker emphasizes that Jesus reveals hope through his resurrection. The Psalm's progression from desperation to a declaration of the coming Messiah, Jesus, points to the hope of the resurrection. The speaker encourages listeners to bring their questions and doubts to God with brutal honesty, stating that it is not "less spiritual" to question God. He argues that comparison can minimize God's faithfulness and that Jesus is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, as stated in Hebrews, because he experienced suffering himself. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to speak their questions to God, recognizing that Jesus is faithful even in their questioning.https://www.youtube.com/embed/jXzvkgy65ds5081https://my.truevi.com/watch/WNZ7CbX5G-k2024-04-01T02:56:20.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/WNZ7CbX5G-k/hqdefault.jpgJesus: King, Priest, and the Kingdom of GodThis Easter sermon focuses on Jesus as the only way to live in the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that Jesus is alive and ruling as King. The speaker challenges the idea that the gospel is solely about avoiding hell, arguing instead that it is an invitation to live in God's Kingdom today. He references Acts 4, where Peter preaches about Jesus of Nazareth, delivered up according to God's plan, crucified, and raised by God, "loosing the pangs of death." The message centers on Psalm 110, described as the most quoted or alluded to passage in the New Testament, which uniquely positions Jesus as King and High Priest. The speaker explains that the first Lord in Psalm 110 refers to Yahweh, and the second to Jesus, who is seated at God's right hand, signifying power and authority. He discusses the concept of Jesus as a priest "after the order of Melchizedek," connecting it to Genesis 14 and Hebrews chapter 7, and highlighting Jesus as the perfect priest who gives access to God's presence. The sermon concludes by stating that the resurrection of Jesus assures that sin and death are defeated, even if it doesn't always feel that way. It calls for a decision to submit to King Jesus and live under his authority, demonstrating the good news of the Kingdom of God in daily life. The speaker quotes Ephesians chapter 1, which declares Jesus' immeasurable power, his resurrection, and his seating at God's right hand, "far above all rule and authority and power and dominion."https://www.youtube.com/embed/WNZ7CbX5G-k5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/y8lPDM9cDAI2024-04-08T03:01:31.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/y8lPDM9cDAI/hqdefault.jpgLiving a Gospel-Centered Life: Galatians 1This teaching begins a new series on living a gospel-centered life, focusing on Paul's letter to the churches in Galatia. The speaker, Dave, introduces the idea that living gospel-centered impacts every area of life and encourages listeners to examine their own lives in light of the truth found in Galatians. He emphasizes that the letter is a real letter written to real people in a real place in time with a real problem, and that understanding the original context is crucial for applying its principles today. The sermon covers Galatians chapter 1, where Paul asserts his apostolic authority comes directly from Jesus Christ, not from men. Paul highlights the resurrection of Jesus as confirming the power and authority of the gospel. He expresses astonishment that the Galatians are quickly deserting the true gospel for a "different gospel," which he argues is no gospel at all. Paul states that anyone, even an angel from heaven, who preaches a contrary gospel should be accursed. The problem in Galatia is identified as a group of "judaizers" who insisted that Gentiles must become Jewish and follow Jewish law, including circumcision, to truly follow Jesus. Paul recounts his own transformation from a zealous persecutor of the Church to a spokesman for the gospel among the Gentiles, emphasizing that his message was received through the revelation of Jesus Christ. He details his interactions with Peter, James, and John, noting that they recognized his entrustment with the gospel to the uncircumcised. The speaker concludes by stating that living the gospel means living out the transformation it brings, which happens over time through the power of the Holy Spirit. He cautions against moral deism and encourages listeners to ask Jesus what area of their lives He wants to transform during this series.https://www.youtube.com/embed/y8lPDM9cDAI5104https://my.truevi.com/watch/JaOvIpHpgdI2024-04-22T03:33:56.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/JaOvIpHpgdI/hqdefault.jpgDeep Roots: Living by the Spirit in GalatiansThis sermon, part of the "Deep Roots" series on Galatians, focuses on living a gospel-centered life through the indwelling Holy Spirit. The speaker begins in Galatians 3:1-14, arguing that the Galatians, like us, began their faith by receiving the Spirit through "hearing with faith," not by "works of the law." He emphasizes that Paul appeals to their own experience with God and the Holy Spirit, noting that Paul was convinced they had received the Spirit, as described in Acts 2:38. The speaker then turns to Abraham's story in Genesis 15:6, which Paul quotes, to show that righteousness has always come through faith, not by works or law. He highlights that Abraham "believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness," even before circumcision was a covenant sign. The sermon concludes by stressing that the Holy Spirit is not only how we begin but also how we continue to live a gospel-centered life, trusting Jesus daily by the Spirit's power, as seen in Galatians 3:13-14 and 2 Corinthians 5:21.https://www.youtube.com/embed/JaOvIpHpgdI5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/2u9PUJVwaEM2024-04-29T02:58:53.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/2u9PUJVwaEM/hqdefault.jpgThe Law, Christ, and God's StoryThis message explores the purpose of the law, arguing that living gospel-centered is built on knowing God's story, which points to Jesus. The speaker references Paul's letter to the followers of Jesus in Ephesus, stating that "in him we have Redemption through his blood, the Forgiveness of our trespasses according to the riches of his grace." He then turns to Galatians chapter 3, verse 15, and continues through verse 29, highlighting that the promises were made to Abraham and his offspring, who is Christ. The law, which came 430 years later, does not annul this covenant. The speaker clarifies that the term "law" in the New Testament can refer to the entire Old Testament, the first five books (Torah or Pentateuch), or specifically the Mosaic or Sinai Covenant. He cites John 10:34, where Jesus quotes from Psalm 82, and 1 Corinthians chapter 14, where Paul references Isaiah, to illustrate the broad use of "law." He also mentions Romans chapter 3, where Paul discusses righteousness apart from the law. The law code, given at Sinai through Moses, served as a "guardian" until Christ came, as stated in Galatians 3:24. The message emphasizes that Jesus is the point of God's story, which begins in Genesis. Genesis 3:14-15 is cited to show God's promise of an offspring who would bruise the serpent's head. Genesis 12, where God tells Abram to go to a new land and promises to make him a great nation and bless all families of the Earth through him, is also referenced. The speaker concludes by identifying three guides still at work today: scripture, the Holy Spirit (citing John chapter 16 and Jeremiah 31:33), and other people (referencing 2 Corinthians chapter 3).https://www.youtube.com/embed/2u9PUJVwaEM5105https://my.truevi.com/watch/vwkRzbZUAFo2024-05-06T02:59:38.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/vwkRzbZUAFo/hqdefault.jpgDeep Roots: Sons of God Through FaithThis sermon, part of the "Deep Roots" series, focuses on living gospel-centered lives rooted in identity in Christ, drawing from Paul's letter to the Galatians, specifically chapter 4. The speaker highlights Paul's perplexity and admonition to the Galatian believers who were "trading the truth of who they are for a lie" by returning to "old ways" and "elementary principles of the world." He emphasizes that the law was a "guardian" leading to Christ, not salvation itself, as stated in Galatians 3:25, and that in Christ, all are "sons of God" through faith, regardless of gender, tied to Abraham and Jesus. The speaker explains that adoption as sons, as described in Galatians 4:4-7, was always "plan A" for God, not a "plan B," and that this adoption grants "all the rights and privileges" of a naturally born family member. He references Ephesians, stating that God "chose us in him before the foundation of the world" for adoption. The "evidence of our adoption" is the Holy Spirit, who cries "Abba Father" in our hearts, signifying an intimate father-son relationship. He clarifies that while "we are the world," not all are "children of God," citing John 1:9-13, which states that only "to all who did receive him who believed in his name he gave the right to become children of God." The sermon addresses the question of why believers would return to "weak and worthless" principles after knowing God and being "known by God," comparing it to the Israelites in Exodus who longed for Egypt despite God's deliverance. The speaker asserts that our view of God as Father is not limited by experiences with earthly fathers, as the Holy Spirit within us testifies to God as the "perfect father." He concludes by encouraging listeners to stop believing lies and to engage with Scripture, asking God to reveal where they have traded truth for a lie, and to allow the Holy Spirit to transform them more into the image of God.https://www.youtube.com/embed/vwkRzbZUAFo5097https://my.truevi.com/watch/jEdzKS7YRw02024-06-03T03:10:53.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/jEdzKS7YRw0/hqdefault.jpgRoad Trip: Being and Making Followers of JesusThis sermon kicks off a summer series called "Road Trip: A Guide to Faith-Filled Community," using the metaphor of a journey to discuss life with Christ. The speaker introduces the series' big idea: a faith-filled community aims to be and make followers of Jesus. He illustrates this with the story of Olympic shooter Matt Emmons, who missed his target in the 2004 Athens games, emphasizing the importance of knowing what we are aiming at. The message then delves into Paul's first letter to Timothy, specifically 1 Timothy chapter 1. The speaker explains that Paul, an apostle or messenger, is writing to Timothy, a church leader in Ephesus, to address issues and provide enduring instructions for being and making followers of Jesus. He highlights three types of followers: those who build their lives on the truth, those who know no one is beyond hope, and those who have experienced God's grace and know it. The speaker clarifies that "doctrine" means belief and that the law, as discussed in Exodus chapter 20, serves to show people their need for Christ, not to make them good. He contrasts the common understanding of sin as "bad stuff" with the biblical concept of sin as rebellion against God, drawing on Romans chapter 5. Finally, the speaker discusses followers who hold tight to "the faith," which he defines as the gospel entrusted to Jesus's followers. He addresses the concept of being "handed over to Satan" as a form of church discipline, emphasizing that the goal is reconciliation and protection within the church community. He distinguishes between healthy personal doubt and destructive deconstruction of faith, advocating for "reconstructing our faith" in accordance with truth. The sermon concludes by stressing the importance of community in the faith journey, asking "Who are you on the journey with?" and encouraging listeners to turn from self-following to following Jesus.https://www.youtube.com/embed/jEdzKS7YRw05068https://my.truevi.com/watch/3tUKIPQy7Vc2024-06-10T03:04:36.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/3tUKIPQy7Vc/hqdefault.jpgTwo Rivers Church: Making Followers of JesusThis message from Two Rivers Church focuses on their vision to make followers of Jesus, rooted in the Great Commission found in Matthew 28. The speaker emphasizes that following Jesus involves denying oneself, taking up one's cross daily, and pursuing Him, as described in Luke. The church aims to make "gospel-centered, word-dependent, Spirit-empowered, and relationally connected followers of Jesus." The church introduces a "discipleship freeway" with four lanes: "me and Jesus," "we and Jesus," "serving with Jesus," and "gathered with Jesus," designed to help individuals grow in Christ. They discuss community involvement through "serve Saturdays," prayer initiatives like "all in prayer" and "Quiet Waters," and partnerships with local ministries such as Renew Clinic, Isaiah 117 House, and Anchor Learning Center. The message also covers a potential fourth campus in Oak Ridge, stemming from an opportunity with an Evangelical Free Church. The speaker discusses the church's budget of $4.7 million for the 2024-2025 ministry year, emphasizing that everything belongs to God and followers are called to steward what they have been given. The service concludes with communion, celebrating Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and return.https://www.youtube.com/embed/3tUKIPQy7Vc5111https://my.truevi.com/watch/tLMsQPWzNZM2024-06-17T03:01:25.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/tLMsQPWzNZM/hqdefault.jpgEveryone Plays Their Part: 1 Timothy 2This sermon, part of the "Road Trip" series, focuses on 1 Timothy Chapter 2, emphasizing that a faith-filled community requires everyone to play their part. The speaker, Mark, begins by establishing the context of Paul's letter to Timothy, which addresses false teachers in the churches at Ephesus. Paul urges prayer for all people, including kings and those in high positions like Nero, so that Christians may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This lifestyle is pleasing to God, who desires all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth, through the one mediator, Jesus Christ. The message highlights that prayer is everyone's part, not just for "prayer warriors." It encourages praying for everyone, including family, neighbors, co-workers, and especially government officials, regardless of political affiliation, that they would know Jesus. The speaker then addresses Paul's instructions to women in verses 9-15, explaining that Paul is correcting specific abuses by young widows in Ephesus who were dressing seductively and espousing incorrect doctrine, not generally prohibiting women from wearing braided hair or pearls. Paul's instruction for women to learn quietly with all submissiveness refers to a demeanor conducive to learning true doctrine, not silence. The sermon concludes by stressing that all followers of Jesus are under authority, ultimately King Jesus, whose authority is revealed in His word and through the Holy Spirit. When everyone plays their part in unity, living a peaceful and quiet life, the gospel goes forth, pointing the world to Jesus Christ. The speaker encourages engaging with scripture and praying for the gospel to be real in individual hearts, communities, and globally, including for government officials and persecuted churches.https://www.youtube.com/embed/tLMsQPWzNZM5106https://my.truevi.com/watch/budYyMG5WvQ2024-06-24T02:50:33.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/budYyMG5WvQ/hqdefault.jpgQualifications for Leaders and All BelieversThis message from the "Road Trip: A Guide to Faith-Filled Community" series unpacks qualifications for leaders and their implications for all believers. The speaker emphasizes that a faith-filled community imitates Jesus, drawing on Paul's instruction to the Corinthians to "be imitators of me as I am of Christ." The church exists to reveal the mystery of Jesus to the world, which is Christ himself. The teaching focuses on 1 Timothy chapter 3, where Paul "lands the plane" by outlining the conduct and character expected of leaders. An overseer, or elder, must be "above reproach" and "the husband of one wife." The speaker clarifies that the role of elder is a male responsibility, citing the biblical pattern for a plurality of male elders giving joint oversight. He discusses mutual submission in marriage, where husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church, laying down their lives. The speaker then details further qualifications for overseers from 1 Timothy 3:2-7, including being sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money, managing his own household well, not a recent convert, and well thought of by outsiders. He also covers qualifications for deacons from 1 Timothy 3:8-13, noting that this role is filled by both men and women. The speaker stresses that these lists are about "pursuit, not perfection," and that only Jesus perfectly kept this list. He concludes by stating that these qualifications are not just for leaders but for every believer, urging listeners to train themselves for godliness as encouraged in 1 Timothy chapter 4 and Ephesians.https://www.youtube.com/embed/budYyMG5WvQ5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/Z8agtwKG_ko2024-07-15T02:56:09.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Z8agtwKG_ko/hqdefault.jpgYou Are the Light of the World: Matthew 5:14-16This message continues the "Road Trip" summer series, focusing on how our lives impact those around us. The speaker references Matthew 5:14-16, where Jesus says, "You are the light of the world." The teaching emphasizes that living in a faith-filled community leaves a lasting impact. Drawing from Paul's second letter to Timothy, the speaker highlights three road signs for making a lasting impact. First, it requires looking beyond oneself, as Paul did for Timothy, whom he called his "beloved child" and "son in the faith." Paul's letter, specifically 2 Timothy 1 and 2, shows him praying day and night for Timothy, remembering his tears, and longing to see him. Second, making a lasting impact is a group effort. The speaker notes Paul's mention of Timothy's sincere faith dwelling first in his grandmother Lois and then in his mother Eunice, emphasizing the influence of multiple people in one's faith journey. Third, making a lasting impact is a convergence of the Spirit's power and our partnership with Him. Paul encourages Timothy to "fan into flame the gift of God" and to "guard the good deposit entrusted to you" by the Holy Spirit. The speaker explains that while the Spirit empowers, He does not force. Paul uses metaphors of a soldier, an athlete, and a hardworking farmer to illustrate the effort required in partnering with God. The message concludes with 2 Timothy 2:11-13, highlighting that even if we are faithless, God remains faithful because "he cannot deny himself."https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z8agtwKG_ko5106https://my.truevi.com/watch/j6L1I15Wi7U2024-07-22T02:50:19.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/j6L1I15Wi7U/hqdefault.jpgLiving Out the Gospel: Titus 2:1-14This message focuses on living out the gospel as a faith-filled community where we live, work, and play. The speaker defines "gospel" as "good news," explaining that the good news is that God is King and the kingdom of God has come, a present reality, not just a future event. He emphasizes that living in this kingdom requires turning from following ourselves and submitting to Jesus' rule. The teaching then turns to Paul's letter to Titus, specifically Titus 2:1-10, and the importance of understanding the Bible in context. The speaker highlights that Paul was writing to a specific culture on the island of Crete, where people were known as "Liars, evil beasts, and lazy gluttons," quoting a Cretan poet mentioned by Paul in Titus chapter one. He cautions against misapplying the text by turning it into a list of rules, using examples like the instructions for older women, younger women, and "bondservants" (slaves) to illustrate the need to understand the underlying principles rather than a literal, one-for-one application. The core truth presented is that "Character Matters in the faith community." The speaker explains that our actions demonstrate what we believe, and if we truly believe Jesus is King, our lives should give others a glimpse of God's kingdom. He then discusses Titus 2:11-14, stating that "Grace guides us as we navigate life in God's Kingdom." This grace, defined as "God's voluntary and unobligated action toward us," trains us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives. The message concludes by encouraging listeners to ask Jesus what purpose He wants to ignite or fan within them, emphasizing that everything we do, including hobbies and work, can be spiritual and used for God's glory and kingdom impact. This requires being submitted to Jesus and allowing the Holy Spirit to bring transformation.https://www.youtube.com/embed/j6L1I15Wi7U5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/cRYo2NbfqJs2024-07-29T02:53:01.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/cRYo2NbfqJs/hqdefault.jpgSteadfast in Good Works: Titus 3This message concludes the "Road Trip" series by focusing on what it means for a faith-filled community to be steadfast in following Jesus, drawing from Paul's words to Timothy and the book of Titus. The speaker emphasizes that giving of time, talent, and treasure, as well as baptism, are acts of worship for followers of Jesus. The sermon centers on Titus Chapter 3, highlighting the repeated emphasis on "good works." The speaker clarifies that salvation is not earned by human works but is rooted in Jesus's saving work, as stated in Titus 3:3-7. He explains that while we were "foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures," God "saved us not because of works done by us in righteousness but according to his own Mercy." The speaker connects Jesus's work as the foundation for believers' good works, referencing Titus 3:1, 8, and 14, which encourage devotion to good works. He also cites Ephesians 2:8-10, explaining that while salvation is "by grace...not as a result of works," believers are "created in Christ Jesus for good works." The message encourages Christians to be "ideal citizens" by engaging in society and culture, not through "culture wars or assimilation," but through "wise participation," letting their light shine as described in Matthew 5:16, so that others "may see your good works and give glory to your father who is in heaven."https://www.youtube.com/embed/cRYo2NbfqJs5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/PZaSwemP2PA2024-08-05T02:56:09.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/PZaSwemP2PA/hqdefault.jpgThe Grateful Life: Philippians 1This sermon, titled "The Grateful Life," begins a new series in the book of Philippians. The speaker, Mark, introduces the idea that true gratitude flows from life in Jesus, not from positive thinking or external circumstances. He references Norman Vincent Peale's "The Power of Positive Thinking" and acknowledges the value of gratitude journals, but emphasizes that ultimate satisfaction and joy come from Jesus. The message highlights that the gospel saves and transforms, making believers more like Christ. Paul, writing from prison in Philippians chapter 1, models gratitude rather than demanding it. The speaker notes that Paul's tone in the letter does not suggest he is imprisoned, and he expresses joy for the Philippians' partnership in the gospel. He also discusses the identity of believers as "Servants of God" (doulos, meaning slave) and "Saints," set apart and made righteous by the blood of Jesus, referencing Romans. The sermon also touches on the story of the 10 lepers in Luke chapter 17, where only one returned to thank Jesus, and the account of Paul and Silas in Acts chapter 16, who sang hymns in prison, leading to the jailer's conversion. The speaker concludes by emphasizing that true gratitude endures adversity, as seen in Paul's perspective that "to live is Christ, and to die is gain," and encourages listeners to cultivate a grateful atmosphere in their lives, even in difficult circumstances, by focusing on Jesus.https://www.youtube.com/embed/PZaSwemP2PA5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/lxOFoqzOZEw2024-08-12T03:00:28.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/lxOFoqzOZEw/hqdefault.jpgThe Grateful Life: Unity, Humility, and ActionThis teaching continues a series on "The Grateful Life" from the book of Philippians, focusing on how gratitude flourishes in "Spirit-powered Unity, Christlike Humility, and Faith in Action." The speaker emphasizes that conflict in the world is normal and that followers of Christ are called to persevere in declaring the good news of the kingdom of God, even when the world is opposed to it. He discusses Philippians 1:27-30 and Philippians 2:1-4, highlighting Paul's instruction to the community of believers to have the same mind and love, doing nothing from selfish ambition. The sermon explores the concept of a "gospel mindset," which compels believers to live as citizens of the kingdom of God, reorienting priorities for the good news to be known. This is contrasted with a "scarcity mindset" that leads to protecting oneself and hoarding resources. The speaker uses the analogy of a garden hose to illustrate the abundance available through the indwelling Holy Spirit, encouraging generosity with time, energy, and emotional investment. Drawing from Philippians 2:5-11, the speaker presents Jesus as the ultimate example of humility, who "made himself nothing" and became obedient to death on a cross. He connects this passage to Isaiah 45:18-23, arguing that Paul identifies Jesus as Yahweh in the flesh, the humble and exalted servant King. The teaching concludes by encouraging believers to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12-13), putting faith into action by investing in others and allowing a grateful life to flourish.https://www.youtube.com/embed/lxOFoqzOZEw5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/yAwD-Yvyls82024-08-26T02:52:27.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/yAwD-Yvyls8/hqdefault.jpgThe Grateful Life: Knowing Jesus (Philippians 3:1-4:1)This message explores what it means to live "The Grateful Life," focusing on Philippians 3:1-4:1. The speaker emphasizes that knowing Jesus leads to a grateful life where one can choose joy and stand firm. Paul's letter calls believers to rejoice and stand firm in the Lord, drawing on the gospel story. The speaker examines Paul's personal testimony in Philippians 3, where Paul recounts his former life as a Pharisee, circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the Tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews, zealous, a persecutor of the church, and blameless under the law. Paul declares that he counts all these gains as loss and rubbish for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus his Lord. He states that knowing Jesus is not about doing all the right things, but about who we know, and that righteousness comes through faith in Christ, not works of the law, as also stated in Galatians. The sermon highlights that knowing Jesus is a relationship based on experience, not just intellectual knowledge. Paul's desire is to know Christ and the power of his resurrection, and to share in his sufferings, becoming more like him in his death. The speaker notes that Paul admits he has not already obtained this or is already perfect, but he presses on, forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. The message concludes by encouraging listeners to make knowing Jesus the most significant and defining part of their lives, seeking first the kingdom of God, and to persevere in life by trusting in Jesus, who will never leave or forsake them.https://www.youtube.com/embed/yAwD-Yvyls85100https://my.truevi.com/watch/_pgtj9gOztA2024-09-02T03:02:32.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/_pgtj9gOztA/hqdefault.jpgChoosing Joy: A Grateful Heart in Philippians 4This teaching concludes a series on Paul's letter to the followers of Jesus in Philippi, focusing on living a grateful life. The speaker highlights Paul's reminder about Jesus' identity: that Jesus humbled himself, became a servant, went to the cross, and was therefore highly exalted by God, receiving the name above every name, so that every knee should bow and every tongue confess Jesus Christ is Lord. The main idea presented is that choosing joy leads to a peace-filled, grateful heart. The speaker explores principles from Philippians chapter 4, starting with verses 2-20. He emphasizes that a grateful heart develops by staying connected to Jesus through spiritual practices like rejoicing, gentleness, prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving. He references John 15:5, where Jesus says, "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." The speaker explains that apart from Jesus, we cannot manufacture joy, peace, or gratitude. He notes that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, using the military term "fortify" in the context of Philippi being a military town. The teaching also covers Paul's instruction in Philippians 4:8-9 to think about whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise, suggesting this points to Jesus. The speaker argues that while we cannot control every thought or emotion, we can control how long they stay, choosing to replace wayward thoughts by focusing on Jesus. He concludes by stating that living a grateful life requires consistently choosing joy over time, comparing it to a cross-country runner maintaining a consistent pace. He cautions against comparison, stating it will rob joy and contentment, and encourages focusing on Jesus and practicing spiritual disciplines.https://www.youtube.com/embed/_pgtj9gOztA5099https://my.truevi.com/watch/oOYf99ddl1g2024-09-09T02:57:39.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/oOYf99ddl1g/hqdefault.jpgLeviticus for the Rest of Us: The Burnt OfferingThis teaching begins a new series, "Leviticus for the Rest of Us," aiming to demystify the Book of Leviticus and show its relevance to the gospel. The speaker explains that Leviticus is central to the first five books of the Bible (the Pentateuch or Torah), which tell a continuous story from Genesis through Numbers, with Deuteronomy as a retelling. Leviticus, positioned at the heart of this narrative, describes how the Israelites were to live with God dwelling among them in the Tabernacle, a mobile tent that served as a "mobile Garden of Eden." The sermon highlights that God's desire to dwell with humanity is a consistent theme throughout His story. It picks up at the end of Exodus, where the glory of the Lord fills the Tabernacle, and Moses cannot enter. Leviticus then begins with God calling to Moses from the "tent of meeting" (which is now the Tabernacle) to instruct the people on offerings. The speaker uses the analogy of a nuclear reactor to explain that God's powerful presence required specific instructions for the Israelites to approach Him without perishing, emphasizing that Leviticus was a "gracious gift" for living in God's presence. The teaching focuses on the burnt offering (also called the whole burnt offering or ascension offering) described in Leviticus 1, where the offeror identifies with an innocent animal, whose life is taken and blood poured out for atonement and purification. This offering, given daily, symbolized the worshiper entering God's presence. The speaker clarifies that Leviticus's offerings primarily address unintentional sin, not "high-handed sin" (intentional sin) which had no provision for forgiveness within the Levitical system. This leads to the conclusion that Jesus is "so much better" because He atones for all sin. The series will explore how God accomplishes His desire to dwell with His people through Jesus and the indwelling Holy Spirit, noting that John 1:14 states the Word "tabernacled" among us. The ultimate point is that God's intention, as seen in Galatians, was for thttps://www.youtube.com/embed/oOYf99ddl1g5104https://my.truevi.com/watch/htnc63llIB42024-09-23T02:54:36.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/htnc63llIB4/hqdefault.jpgLeviticus 16: The Day of Atonement Fulfilled in JesusThis teaching continues a series on Leviticus, focusing on Leviticus chapter 16 and the Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur. The speaker emphasizes the need for a guide to understand the Bible, particularly Leviticus, due to the 3500-year gap and cultural differences. He explains that while the Bible is sufficient for meeting Jesus and new life in Christ, understanding the full story requires guidance and community, as scripture is a "community book." The core message is that God's grace provides the way into His presence, a truth seen in Leviticus and for followers of Christ. The speaker references the story of Aaron's two sons in chapter 10 who approached God on their own terms, leading to their death. Chapter 11 through 15 then outlines what it means to be a "pure people." Chapter 16 picks up with God providing a way to cleanse "Sacred Space" after it was defiled. The Day of Atonement is presented as the "point of the point of the story" within the Torah and Leviticus. The speaker details the Day of Atonement ceremony, including the sin offering and burnt offering, and the two goats: one for Yahweh (purification) and one for Azazel. He explains Azazel as a personal name for a ruler in the "demonic realm" or "land of death and chaos" in the wilderness, contrasting with God's presence. The blood of the sacrificed animals is described as an agent of purification, cleansing Sacred Space. The second goat, the "guilty goat," carries the sins of the people into the wilderness, never to return. Atonement is defined as having two sides: paying a ransom for one's life and cleansing or wiping clean. The speaker clarifies that the sacrificial system was God's gracious provision, based on faith, and a glimpse of what was to come. The teaching then connects the Day of Atonement to Jesus, presenting four ways Jesus fulfills its meaning. First, the Tabernacle prefigures Jesus as the dwelling place of God, as seen in John's description of the Word tabernacling among us and Jesus referring to his body as a new Temple in John Chahttps://www.youtube.com/embed/htnc63llIB45105https://my.truevi.com/watch/PZA-smgObl82024-09-30T02:58:18.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/PZA-smgObl8/hqdefault.jpgLiving Out God's Presence in CommunityThis sermon concludes a series on Leviticus, focusing on how God's people are to live out his presence in community. The speaker highlights the vastly different context of ancient Israel compared to today, noting their nomadic life, the presence of God at Mount Sinai, and their unique worship practices involving animal sacrifice. Despite these differences, the core question remains the same: "How do we live now that God has moved in?" The message draws from Leviticus 17-27, emphasizing that while earlier chapters focused on instructions for Israel's leadership, these chapters provide commands for all people. Referencing Exodus 19:4-6, the speaker explains God's purpose for Israel to be a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation," a purpose echoed for New Testament believers in 1 Peter chapter 2. The central idea is that God's people are "set apart to live out his presence in community." The speaker defines "holy" as "set apart" for Yahweh's purposes, contrasting it with "profane," meaning common or not set apart. He stresses that living according to God's commands does not make one holy; rather, God makes people holy. The sermon explores Leviticus 18, 19, and 20, often called the "Holiness code," which outlines how Israel was to live differently from the surrounding nations of Egypt and Canaan. The speaker provides guidance on interpreting Old Testament commands, suggesting questions about their original objective, how the New Testament applies them, and how they align with core values like being gospel-centered, word-dependent, spirit-empowered, and relationally connected. He emphasizes that "how you live is a mark of who you worship," connecting this to James's teaching on faith without works. Finally, the sermon discusses structuring lives to stay connected to God's presence, drawing from Leviticus 23 on appointed feasts and the Sabbath. These practices, including weekly Sabbath rest and annual feasts, were designed to remind Israel of God's provision and holiness. The speaker encourages listeners to identify https://www.youtube.com/embed/PZA-smgObl85116https://my.truevi.com/watch/GGKDnszkxOM2024-10-07T02:52:04.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/GGKDnszkxOM/hqdefault.jpgIn the Wilderness: More Than NumbersThis teaching begins a new four-week series called "In the Wilderness: More Than Numbers," offering an overview of the Book of Numbers. The Book of Numbers tells the story of the Israelites' journey from Mount Sinai to the edge of the promised land, a journey marked by Yahweh's guidance and human rebellion. The speaker emphasizes that God calls us to a faithful life, trusting in His power and presence, and references Lamentations chapter 3, which states, "the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." The speaker highlights that the Book of Numbers matters because it mirrors the Book of Exodus, reminds us of continuous rebellion, and tells us about God and His call to us. The big idea for today is "God's call to us to a faithful life trusting in his power and his presence." The book begins with a census, as described in Numbers Chapter 1, verses 1-4, where the Lord spoke to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai in the tent of meeting, commanding a census of the people of Israel. This demonstrates that God is the grand initiator, as seen from Genesis chapter 1, and that God still speaks. The teaching emphasizes God's faithfulness to His covenant, referencing Genesis chapter 12, where God spoke to Abram, promising to make him a great nation and bless him. Despite human rebellion, God remains faithful. The speaker also discusses God's plan for His people, as seen in Numbers Chapter 1, verses 17-19, where Moses and Aaron followed God's command to register the congregation. God organizes His people around His presence and guidance, with the tribes camping around the tent of meeting, as described in Numbers Chapter 2, verses 1-2. The Levites, as detailed in Numbers 3:9-10, were wholly given to Aaron and his sons to guard the priesthood. The speaker connects this Old Testament organization to the New Testament, referencing 2 Corinthians 13:5, Romans 8:10, and Galatians 2:20, which speak of Christ living in believers. The teaching conclhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/GGKDnszkxOM5105https://my.truevi.com/watch/0rjKuZtYqnA2024-10-21T03:19:58.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/0rjKuZtYqnA/hqdefault.jpgGod's Faithfulness in Numbers: Balaam and the Bronze SerpentThis sermon concludes an overview of the Book of Numbers, focusing on God's faithfulness to His plan despite human rebellion and failures. The speaker highlights that the Book of Numbers is not primarily about a rebellious people, but about a faithful God who pursues a relationship with His created beings, a plan evident from Genesis to Revelation. He references Psalm 105, Genesis 12, and Genesis 15 to illustrate God's covenant with Abraham and his descendants. The message explores Numbers chapters 20-24, noting that 38 years have passed between chapter 19 and 20. It recounts the story of King Balak of Moab and the spiritualist Balaam, who is called to curse Israel but can only bless them. The speaker emphasizes God's power and dominion, even speaking through a donkey in Numbers 22:22-34. He differentiates between God's wrath, which is for those who do not follow Him (John 3), and His discipline, which is a form of instruction, correction, and training for spiritual growth and transformation for those He loves, as seen in Proverbs and Hebrews. The sermon discusses instances of God's discipline, including the fiery serpents in Numbers 21:6-9, where looking to the bronze serpent brought life, and the discipline of Moses and Aaron for their disobedience in Numbers 20. The speaker connects the bronze serpent to Jesus, referencing John 3, and identifies the "angel of the Lord" in Balaam's story as a pre-incarnate manifestation of Jesus. He concludes by emphasizing that Jesus is the "star" from Jacob and "scepter" from Israel, as prophesied by Balaam, and encourages listeners to fix their eyes on Jesus amidst life's anxieties.https://www.youtube.com/embed/0rjKuZtYqnA5105https://my.truevi.com/watch/4oBDfRhhgtk2024-11-04T04:02:59.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/4oBDfRhhgtk/hqdefault.jpgRadical Compassion Beyond Reason: Book of JonahThis teaching begins a new series in the Book of Jonah, titled "Radical Compassion Beyond Reason." The speaker emphasizes that God's mercy and compassion extend beyond human capacity and are for everyone, even those considered "beyond" reach. He highlights that the Book of Jonah is more than a children's story, offering various types of biblical literature and serving as a starting point for studying the Bible, as used by Bible Project. The speaker clarifies that Jonah was a real person, a prophet in the 8th Century BC, contemporary with Amos, Hosea, Isaiah, and Micah. He discusses two primary views of interpreting the Book of Jonah: as historical events or as a parable, asserting that both views, when approached on the text's own terms, lead to the same destination. He explains that Nineveh was the capital of Assyria, a major threat to Israel, and that God's command to Jonah to go there was a radical call. The main character of the story is Yahweh, the personal name of God, who drives the action. The speaker points out that Jonah's claim "I am a Hebrew and I fear the Lord, the God of Heaven who made the Sea and the dry land" is contradicted by his actions, while the pagan sailors in Jonah 1:14 demonstrate true fear of Yahweh. He connects the story to Genesis 12, where Abraham is called to be a blessing to the nations, and to Matthew 12, where Jesus references Jonah's three days and three nights in the fish as a sign. The teaching concludes by emphasizing that God's mercy and compassion are demonstrated through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, and that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to show this mercy and compassion to others.https://www.youtube.com/embed/4oBDfRhhgtk5104https://my.truevi.com/watch/zIXEekWPuhI2025-01-06T03:59:21.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/zIXEekWPuhI/hqdefault.jpgUnveiling the King: Matthew 1:1-18This teaching begins a new series titled "Unveiled: Revealing the King," exploring the first four chapters of Matthew's gospel over the next 10 weeks. The speaker highlights Matthew's presentation of Jesus as the fulfillment of God's covenant promises and the completion of Israel's story, showing how Jesus, the faithful and obedient son, fulfills Old Testament prophecies and reenacts Israel's journey, triumphing where they had failed. Today's message focuses on Jesus unveiling God's kingdom as the promised king and savior for all people, referencing Luke chapter 4 where Jesus reads from the Isaiah scroll about proclaiming good news, liberty, and sight. The speaker shares a personal story about learning more about his father, illustrating the idea that we often don't have the full story about people or even ourselves. He then delves into Matthew chapter 1, verses 1-18, emphasizing that Matthew wants readers to get a fuller picture of who Jesus is. Jesus is called the Christ, the son of David, and the son of Abraham, connecting him to the entire biblical narrative from Genesis. The genealogy, though seemingly a list of names, represents God's ongoing story and his presence throughout history, leading to the perfection and completeness of Christ. Matthew uses three sets of 14 generations, hinting at perfection and completeness. The message explains that Jesus is revealed as the Christ, the origin of a new creation, and the one who will be with us always, even to the end of the age, as stated in Matthew 28. Jesus is the pinnacle of the redemption story, fulfilling the covenant to be the eternal king, embodying Israel's hope for a Messiah. The speaker discusses David as a good king, despite his flaws, because he understood God's sovereignty, justice, and desired heartfelt obedience over mere religious rituals. Jesus, as the son of Abraham, brings salvation by faith to all, fulfilling God's plan to bless all nations, even through human brokenness. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to consider if they havehttps://www.youtube.com/embed/zIXEekWPuhI5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/prhPKuhCzKw2025-01-13T03:58:20.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/prhPKuhCzKw/hqdefault.jpgUnveiling the King: Jesus's Birth in Matthew 1:18This teaching continues the "Unveiled: Revealing the King" series, focusing on Matthew's account of Jesus's birth. The speaker emphasizes that Matthew did not write this as a standalone Christmas story, but as an integral part of his gospel, an argument that fits into a specific place. The big idea is that Jesus unveils the promise of New Creation through God's presence with us. The message reviews and deepens understanding of truths about Jesus, aiming for transformation in 2025. The sermon begins in Matthew 1:18, detailing the supernatural birth of Jesus through the Holy Spirit and Mary. Joseph, a just man from the line of David, is told by an angel in a dream not to fear taking Mary as his wife, as the child is from the Holy Spirit. The angel instructs him to name the son Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. This fulfills the prophecy from Isaiah: "Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel," which means "God with us." The speaker clarifies that Joseph is Jesus's adoptive father, not biological, and highlights Joseph and Mary's obedience to Yahweh. The supernatural birth of Jesus is presented as the beginning of God's New Creation, not just a future event. Jesus is God become man, eternally existing as one God in three persons. His name, Jesus, means "Yahweh is salvation," and Immanuel means "God with us," revealing his mission and identity. This salvation is not an end but a beginning, inviting believers into a new reality, God's kingdom, which is a present reality. The teaching encourages listeners to live as new creations in Christ, aligning their lives with God's truth, as described by Paul in Galatians and Colossians.https://www.youtube.com/embed/prhPKuhCzKw5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/DJtTDCx9iO42025-01-20T04:02:29.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/DJtTDCx9iO4/hqdefault.jpgUnveiling the King: Worship the Worthy KingThis message continues the "Unveiling the King" series in Matthew's Gospel, focusing on Matthew Chapter 2. The speaker highlights Jesus as the worthy King who invites all people into his kingdom. The passage discusses the Magi, or wise men, who traveled from the East to Jerusalem seeking the newborn King of the Jews, having seen his star. King Herod, troubled by this news, consulted the chief priests and scribes, who cited the prophet Micah 5:2, stating the Christ would be born in Bethlehem of Judea. The Magi then followed the star to Bethlehem, found Jesus with Mary, and worshiped him, offering gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The speaker emphasizes that a worthy King is worthy of worship, noting that the Magi, who were not Jewish, came to worship Jesus, while the religious leaders who knew the prophecies did not. He connects Matthew's genealogy, starting with Abraham and David, to the fulfillment of Old Testament promises, particularly linking Jesus' birth in Bethlehem to the city of David and prophecies in Ezekiel 34 about a Shepherd King. The message encourages listeners to recognize Jesus as King and to worship him, defining worship as ascribing ultimate worth and devotion to God, involving the whole person in adoration, surrender, and obedience, as described in Romans 12:1. The sermon concludes by urging believers to seek Jesus, adore him, and give sacrificially to his kingdom, including their time and resources. It challenges listeners to examine where their worship aligns with Jesus as King and where areas of their lives need to be brought into alignment. The speaker references Matthew 6:33, encouraging the audience to seek first God's kingdom and his righteousness.https://www.youtube.com/embed/DJtTDCx9iO45101https://my.truevi.com/watch/tB6r9V8WNis2025-01-27T03:58:10.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/tB6r9V8WNis/hqdefault.jpgSalvation: A Life to Be LivedThis message, part of the "Unveiled: Revealing the King" series, focuses on Jesus unveiling the path to salvation. The speaker explains that salvation is not merely a status but "a life to be lived," an invitation to live under God's rule and reign. He argues against the "overly reductionist view" of the gospel as just an "insurance policy" for heaven, emphasizing that salvation is "just as relevant today" as it was at conversion. The sermon delves into Matthew Chapter 2, where an angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to flee to Egypt to protect Jesus from Herod's threat. This event, and Jesus's subsequent return, is presented as fulfilling Hosea 11:1 ("out of Egypt I called my son") and Jeremiah 31:15, connecting Jesus to the Old Testament story and portraying him as the "new and better Moses leading a new Exodus." The speaker highlights that Matthew, a "master Storyteller," uses these Old Testament texts to show God's "relational promise" and the "pattern of God's story." The speaker differentiates between predictions and promises, stating that while some prophecy is predictive, the majority is about "Covenant loyalty." He explains that many of Matthew's references are "veiled" and not obvious predictive Messianic texts, but rather patterns that become clear in hindsight, revealing God's plan to reestablish covenant with humanity through Jesus. The message concludes by asking "what am I saved from?" and "what am I saved to?", emphasizing that salvation is an "ongoing Spirit empowered transformation" and a "vibrant Spirit empowered life of relationship" lived out today. He references John Chapter 17, where Jesus describes eternal life as knowing God, not just knowing about Him.https://www.youtube.com/embed/tB6r9V8WNis5106https://my.truevi.com/watch/H0AzxxCChsQ2025-02-03T04:04:12.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/H0AzxxCChsQ/hqdefault.jpgUnveiled: Repentance and the Kingdom of HeavenThis teaching continues the "Unveiled: Revealing the King" series in Matthew's Gospel, focusing on Matthew chapter 3, verses 1-12. The speaker explains that repentance is unveiled as the pathway to life, challenging the common perception of repentance as shame or punishment. Instead, repentance is defined as realizing one is going the wrong direction and turning to go the other way with everything one has, a change of thinking that leads to a change in direction. John the Baptist's message, "Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand," is presented as good news. The speaker clarifies that "Kingdom of Heaven" refers to God's rule through Jesus, not just a future place. This kingdom has always been God's plan, as prophesied by Isaiah in Isaiah chapter 40, where he spoke of preparing the way for the Lord. The teaching emphasizes that repentance is demonstrated and results in a fruit-filled life, not just words or a change of mind. This fruit is naturally produced by those filled with God's Spirit, as described by Paul in Galatians chapter 5, which lists the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The speaker warns that unrepentance leads to death, comparing it to a tree that does not bear good fruit being cut down and thrown into the fire. The speaker encourages daily repentance and realignment with Jesus, describing discipleship as constantly revising one's affairs to follow Jesus. The video concludes with a celebration of communion, which serves as a reminder of God's grace and forgiveness, allowing believers to return to Him when they are out of alignment.https://www.youtube.com/embed/H0AzxxCChsQ5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/al71w2H4XbA2025-02-17T03:52:23.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/al71w2H4XbA/hqdefault.jpgMatthew 4: The Word-Dependent, Spirit-Empowered LifeThis message continues a series in Matthew's gospel, focusing on Matthew chapter 4. The speaker introduces the concept of a "word dependent and spirit empowered life," which he describes as a life intentionally reliant on God's word and the Holy Spirit for daily obedience and victory in a "real Cosmic battle." He references John chapter 4, where Jesus speaks of true worshipers worshipping the Father in spirit and truth. The speaker explains that Jesus's temptation in the wilderness, as described in Matthew chapter 4, reveals Jesus's identity as the obedient son, triumphing where Israel and Adam failed. He highlights that the "Cosmic battle" is an ongoing conflict between God's kingdom and the forces of darkness, unfolding in both spiritual and physical realms. He clarifies that the Old Testament is full of "Spiritual Beings" (little G gods), and that the conflict began in Genesis chapter 3 with the serpent, which the New Testament equates with Satan. He also mentions the Tower of Babel and Deuteronomy chapter 32 in relation to these spiritual beings. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus demonstrates reliance on God's word and the Spirit's power to emerge victorious from testing. He notes that Jesus's three quotations during his temptation come from Deuteronomy chapter 6 and Deuteronomy chapter 8, linking Jesus to the story of the children of Israel. He cautions against taking scripture out of context, using Philippians 4:13 ("I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength") as an example. He concludes by encouraging a "way of life" that seeks transformation over time through small, consistent steps and spiritual practices, rather than a "method" for immediate results.https://www.youtube.com/embed/al71w2H4XbA5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/aN91UsqX-0Q2025-02-24T03:54:24.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/aN91UsqX-0Q/hqdefault.jpgJesus: The Light of the World - Isaiah 9 & Matthew 4This teaching focuses on Jesus as the light that breaks into darkness, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy in Isaiah 9. The speaker explains that Matthew, in Matthew 4, uses five Old Testament quotes to establish Jesus' identity as the Messiah and worthy King. The passage in Matthew 4:12-16 describes Jesus moving to Capernaum, fulfilling Isaiah 9:1-2, which speaks of light dawning on those in darkness in the land of Zebulun and Naphtali. The speaker emphasizes that this light brings freedom, joy, and peace, as detailed in Isaiah 9:3-7. These verses describe the breaking of the oppressor's yoke, increased joy, and a government of peace and righteousness established by the Prince of Peace. Jesus himself claims to be the "light of the world" in John 8:12. The sermon argues that there is no middle ground between the kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness; one is either in one or the other. The speaker shares a personal story about a rare autoimmune liver disease diagnosis in 2024, highlighting how Jesus' presence brought peace during an MRI, even without a cure. This experience led to a deeper understanding that the "blessed life" of freedom, joy, and peace is available now, not just in heaven, by walking with Jesus. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to step into God's story by faith, surrendering to Jesus as the light of the world, and to ask Jesus how to experience more freedom, joy, and peace. This is presented as an "on-ramp to discipleship," a journey of becoming like Jesus through community, service, and worship.https://www.youtube.com/embed/aN91UsqX-0Q5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/JU8VfY8onxk2025-03-03T04:15:53.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/JU8VfY8onxk/hqdefault.jpgJesus Calls Disciples: Repent and Follow MeThis message continues a study in Matthew's gospel, focusing on Matthew chapter 4, verse 17 through the end of the chapter. The speaker highlights Jesus unveiling his authority and inviting people to live out a new identity and purpose. He discusses Jesus's call to "repent" and "follow me," explaining that "repent" means turning in a new direction towards Jesus, and "follow" means an all-in, surrendered allegiance to Christ, not just a part of one's life. The speaker examines the calling of Peter, Andrew, James, and John by the Sea of Galilee, noting that their immediate response to Jesus's call to become "Fishers of Men" was not their first encounter with him. Drawing on Luke chapter 5 and John chapter 1, verses 35-51, he explains that these men had prior experiences with Jesus's teaching and miracles, and Andrew had already identified Jesus as the Messiah. This prior knowledge informed their dramatic decision to leave everything and follow him, leading to a permanent change in their identity and purpose. The sermon emphasizes that following Jesus is not just something we do, but who we are, and this new identity dictates a new purpose. It requires rearranging our lives, surrendering, and making sacrifices, as exemplified by the fishermen who left their livelihood and families. The speaker connects this to the Great Commission in Matthew 28, where Jesus commands his followers to make disciples of all nations. He concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace their new identity and purpose in Christ, emphasizing that God uses even a "smidgen of 1%" of our effort to do amazing things.https://www.youtube.com/embed/JU8VfY8onxk5106https://my.truevi.com/watch/MYM84tk3N2k2025-03-17T03:05:11.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/MYM84tk3N2k/hqdefault.jpgEaster Eggs: Isaiah's Prophecy of the Suffering ServantThis sermon, part of a series called "Easter Eggs," explores how God placed glimpses of Jesus throughout scripture, revealing the significance of Easter. The focus is on Isaiah's prophecy of the suffering servant, whose pain and rejection were foretold hundreds of years before Jesus. The speaker highlights Isaiah 53, stating that Jesus's suffering and death fulfilled God's plan to redeem humanity, as seen in the verse, "he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed." The speaker explains that Old Testament prophecies about Jesus, like Isaiah 53, are like "Easter eggs" – hidden in plain sight but only fully understood when looking back with the New Testament's fulfillment. He references Acts chapter 8, where Philip explains Isaiah 53 to an Ethiopian official, and 1 Peter chapter 2, verse 24, where Peter explicitly connects Jesus's suffering and healing to Isaiah 53. The sermon emphasizes that God's path to victory is unexpected, involving suffering, submission, and sacrifice, as exemplified by Jesus's life, his anguish in the Garden of Gethsemane, and his willing submission to death on a cross. The message concludes by discussing the implications of Jesus's unexpected path to victory for believers. Peter's words in 1 Peter chapter 2 are explored, noting that Jesus left an example for us to follow in his steps, even in suffering. The speaker clarifies that Jesus's suffering for our sins means we are "dead to sin and live to righteousness," as mentioned in 1 Peter 2:24. This leads to a "healed life," characterized by trusting God, even in difficulty, and living in the righteousness achieved by Jesus, as described in 2 Corinthians 5 and Philippians 2.https://www.youtube.com/embed/MYM84tk3N2k5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/eN7uv5UD3U42025-03-24T03:06:42.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/eN7uv5UD3U4/hqdefault.jpgGod's Plan: The Cross From Beginning to EndThis teaching explores "Easter eggs" in scripture—hidden clues and subtle hints that point to Jesus. From the beginning, God has woven images through stories of sacrifice, the Passover lamb, and promises to Abraham, Moses, and David, all pointing to Jesus's sacrificial death bringing salvation to all who believe. The cross was always the plan. John the Baptist identified Jesus as "the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." The speaker focuses on John chapter 19, where John records events after Jesus's death. John notes that the soldiers did not break Jesus's legs, but one pierced his side with a spear, from which blood and water came out. John states that these things took place to fulfill scriptures: "not one of his bones will be broken" and "they will look on him whom they have pierced." John is writing from firsthand experience, having witnessed these events. He emphasizes that these things are written "so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name." John's gospel begins in John chapter 1, stating, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." This shows that Jesus's life preceded his earthly walk. God's plan for salvation was always in his control, not a "plan B." The speaker connects the unbroken bones to Exodus 12 and Numbers 9, referring to Jesus as the Passover Lamb. The piercing is linked to Zechariah 12:10. The crucifixion was not an accident but God's orchestrated plan. Jesus willingly stepped into suffering to rescue and save humanity, as stated in John 10:17-18: "No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own accord." This love was always meant for all people, as seen in John 3:16 and God's covenant with Abraham in Genesis, promising to bless "all the families of the Earth." Revelation describes a future multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language worshipping God. The speaker concludes by emphasizing that God loves each individual personally, stating, "You're thehttps://www.youtube.com/embed/eN7uv5UD3U45113https://my.truevi.com/watch/51lu-Wige_E2025-03-31T02:55:46.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/51lu-Wige_E/hqdefault.jpgBetrayal and God's Plan: John 13This teaching continues the "Easter eggs" series, tracing subtle moments in Scripture that point to Jesus. The focus is on Jesus's betrayal, which the speaker states was not an accident but part of God's plan for redemption. The sermon references Matthew's gospel, where Jesus says, "the son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners." The speaker explores betrayal as a central theme in the biblical narrative, beginning with Psalm 41, which describes a close friend who "ate my bread [and] has lifted his heel against me." This is then connected to John Chapter 13, where Jesus identifies Judas as the one who will betray him, fulfilling the scripture "he who ate my bread Has Lifted his heel against me." The speaker emphasizes that God's plan is never derailed by human failure. The sermon distinguishes between biblical betrayal, which involves breaking a covenant with God at the center, and modern betrayal, which is violating trust or confidence. It traces the theme of betrayal back to Genesis Chapter 3, where the first sin is described as rebellion and betrayal against God. The speaker notes that John's gospel explicitly states that "Satan entered into Judas," highlighting the spiritual battle at play. The teaching concludes by encouraging listeners to ask Jesus where they have experienced betrayal and how He wants to redeem and transform their story.https://www.youtube.com/embed/51lu-Wige_E5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/8UNzTOjOEyM2025-04-07T02:52:38.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/8UNzTOjOEyM/hqdefault.jpgFreedom Through the Passover LambThis message continues the "Easter Egg" series, exploring how Jesus's story is woven throughout scripture. The focus is on Jesus's death and resurrection setting people free from sin and the fear of death, enabling them to live the full life God intended. John 8:36 is cited: "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." The speaker emphasizes that while we await Christ's return, we can experience God's goodness and the kingdom of God now. The teaching examines the Passover in Exodus 12, specifically verses 21-27, describing the instructions for the Passover lamb and the blood on the doorposts. This event is presented as a foreshadowing of Jesus's sacrificial death, where a lamb died as a substitute. The speaker contrasts American freedom, often defined as personal autonomy, with biblical freedom, which is freedom to live as God intended, characterized by dependence on God. References include 2 Corinthians 3, Galatians 5:1, and Romans 6:14 to illustrate freedom from sin and the law, and freedom to live in relationship with God. Jesus is identified as the complete Passover lamb, fulfilling the theme of waiting for a sacrificial lamb seen in Genesis 22 with Abraham and Isaac, and declared by John the Baptist as "the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." 1 Corinthians 5 is referenced, where Paul states, "Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed." The sermon outlines three aspects of this freedom: freedom from the bondage of sin, freedom from the punishment of death, and freedom to live the life made to live with Jesus. Romans 6:6-7 is quoted: "We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin." Jesus's words to Martha in John 11 are cited: "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live. And everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die." Three implications for living out this freedom https://www.youtube.com/embed/8UNzTOjOEyM5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/WPPaZON-jYU2025-04-14T02:53:25.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/WPPaZON-jYU/hqdefault.jpgPalm Sunday: The Humble King (John 12)This Palm Sunday sermon, part of the "Easter Eggs" series, explores the idea that following Jesus leads to a humble life of loving and serving others. The speaker references John 12, where Jesus enters Jerusalem and the crowds cry out "Hosana, blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel," connecting it to Zechariah 9:9, which describes a humble king "mounted on a donkey, on a colt to full of a donkey." The message emphasizes that Jesus's humility was not a strategy but reflects the heart of God, and that true biblical humility is "trustful submission to God expressed through service to others and marked by dependence on God rather than self reliance." This contrasts with self-deprecating thoughts, as humanity was created in the image of God to be His representatives, a representation marred by sin but restored through faith in Jesus. The speaker argues that the resurrection opens the door to living with humility, enabling "love without expectation" and "serving without the need for recognition," which is impossible without the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to reflect on what they are learning about humility, love, and serving, and to ask Jesus, "What's one thing you want me to know about me?" The speaker also highlights the church's "Love Gives" campaign, supporting the EFCA's work with disabled children in the Democratic Republic of Congo, providing homes, training, and resources like wheelchairs and physical therapy equipment.https://www.youtube.com/embed/WPPaZON-jYU5104https://my.truevi.com/watch/RCVaqAOoc8Y2025-05-05T02:54:10.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/RCVaqAOoc8Y/hqdefault.jpgFlipped: You Are the Salt and Light - Matthew 5:13-16This teaching continues the "Flipped" series, exploring how Jesus realigns our values in a world that is upside down. The speaker references Colossians 3:1-2, which instructs believers to seek things above and set their minds on heavenly things. The sermon emphasizes that living right side up means letting Jesus define what we value most, both in our possessions and in our identity. The core passage for this message is Matthew 5:13-16, where Jesus declares to his disciples, "You are the salt of the earth" and "You are the light of the world." The speaker explains that these are declaratory statements of identity for followers of Jesus, not suggestions. He notes that Matthew, as a storyteller, connects this to God's consistent pattern of partnering with human agents throughout scripture, from Adam and Eve to Noah, Abraham, Moses, and the nation of Israel, to reveal Himself to the world. The sermon clarifies that being salt means bringing flavor, purity, and enhancement to the world, while being light means revealing and guiding. It is explained that believers do not have their own light but reflect the light of Jesus, who declared in John 8, "I am the light of the world." The speaker cautions against making being salt and light a to-do list, instead emphasizing that it is a way of living in close relationship with Jesus, allowing kingdom values like love, sacrifice, and humility to be demonstrated in everyday actions, from sports games to laundry. The goal is for others to see believers' good works and give glory to the Father in heaven, as stated in Matthew 5:16.https://www.youtube.com/embed/RCVaqAOoc8Y5108https://my.truevi.com/watch/HKandJbW60E2025-05-12T02:58:30.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/HKandJbW60E/hqdefault.jpgHeart Transformation and Fulfilling the LawThis message explores Jesus' call to heart-changing transformation, not just behavior modification. The speaker references Ezekiel's prophecy of God giving a new heart and spirit, removing the heart of stone and replacing it with a heart of flesh. This transformation is not something we do on our own, but through the Spirit. The sermon also includes a child dedication ceremony for several families: the Good Row family dedicating Jackson and Charlie, the Roy Ball family dedicating Shephard, the Oldacre Caps family dedicating Bronwin, the Hos family dedicating Eden, the Thigpin family dedicating Elena, the Parin family dedicating Max, and the Curtis family dedicating Bailey. The speaker then delves into Matthew chapter 5, from the series "Flipped," discussing Jesus' statement that he did not come to abolish the law or the prophets but to fulfill them. He clarifies that "fulfill" means to bring to completion or culmination, and that "law" (Torah) should be understood as teaching and instruction, not just legal code. The speaker argues that the entire story of God, from Genesis to Malachi, points to Jesus as its completion, not merely that Jesus perfectly kept the 613 commands. The message emphasizes that Jesus calls followers to be changed people, not just better rule-keepers. This transformation is an ongoing process from the inside out, empowered by the Holy Spirit, as prophesied by Ezekiel and Jeremiah. The speaker contrasts the world's message of "do better" with Jesus' call to "do simple better," which leads to transformation over time. Righteousness, according to Jesus, is not about doing more but about becoming different through a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit. The speaker encourages engaging in a "simple, daily, and doable" discipleship process and fostering community where people encourage one another in their transformation.https://www.youtube.com/embed/HKandJbW60E5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/zBQvtiMkl9M2025-06-02T04:30:51.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/zBQvtiMkl9M/hqdefault.jpgFlipped: Truthfulness, Retaliation, and Loving EnemiesThis teaching continues the "Flipped" series, exploring how Jesus's teachings in the Sermon on the Mount challenge worldly ways and invite believers to live in his kingdom. The focus is on Matthew chapter 5, specifically Jesus's words on truthfulness, retaliation, and loving enemies, emphasizing that these are not about external behavior but deep, heart-level transformation. The speaker references Paul's words in Ephesians 4 about putting on the new self, created in God's likeness, and speaking truth. The sermon breaks down three principles from Matthew 5:33-48. First, a transformed heart values honesty in relationships, as Jesus calls for simple "yes or no" communication, contrasting with the Jewish practice of swearing by things associated with God to create loopholes. Second, a transformed heart trusts God's justice, moving beyond the "eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" principle from Exodus and Leviticus, and instead embracing bold generosity. The speaker notes that Jesus's kindness leads to repentance, as described in scripture. Finally, a transformed heart is growing in radical love. Jesus's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44) is presented as a shocking and transformative ethic. The speaker connects this to Romans 5:8, where Paul states that God demonstrates his love for us while we were still sinners. This radical love is presented as the cure for anger, lust, divorce, and retaliation, leading to the "complete life" Jesus describes in Matthew 5:48 when he says, "You therefore must be perfect as your heavenly father is perfect." The Greek word for perfect, *teleios*, means complete or whole. The teaching concludes by encouraging listeners to ask Jesus to reveal an "enemy" in their lives and to practice praying for them. The speaker reminds listeners of Jesus's promise in Matthew to be "with you always to the very end of the age."https://www.youtube.com/embed/zBQvtiMkl9M5089https://my.truevi.com/watch/ZDHlR3sn8pg2025-06-09T02:53:14.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/ZDHlR3sn8pg/hqdefault.jpgJesus Changes Everything: Generosity and GivingThis sermon, delivered during "Vision Weekend," emphasizes that Jesus changes everything, focusing on how He rewrites individual stories. The speaker shares Jocelyn's testimony of how a car accident led her to deepen her faith and decide to be baptized, symbolizing her identification with Christ's life, death, and resurrection. The message highlights that God's character is the root of "Gospel-centered generosity," asserting that "the Earth is the Lord's and everything in it," and that "He owns it all." The speaker references Matthew chapter 6, where Jesus discusses practicing righteousness, giving, and fasting. He notes Jesus' instruction not to let the left hand know what the right hand is doing when giving, suggesting that generosity should be private and between an individual and God. The sermon also touches on Jesus' teaching that "no one can serve two masters," emphasizing that one cannot serve both God and money. The speaker clarifies that Jesus came to fulfill the law, not erase it, and that His teachings often "raise the bar" for followers. The sermon outlines three spheres of giving: first, to the local church, then to "gospel partnerships" like missionaries and ministries, and finally, to "gospel expression" by meeting the needs of others, referencing Acts 2. The speaker also addresses the church's annual budget and a proposed $8 million loan for a capital campaign, which will fund church plants and campus improvements, including the new Oak Ridge Campus. The sermon concludes with a call for members to vote on these financial and leadership proposals, including the affirmation of Jim Neal as an elder, and encourages continued generosity as a practice of righteousness.https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZDHlR3sn8pg5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/y3dfLgG7uFc2025-06-16T02:58:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/y3dfLgG7uFc/hqdefault.jpgMatthew 6: Right Side Up LivingThis message explores Matthew chapter 6, focusing on Jesus' teaching about prayer and fasting in the Sermon on the Mount. The speaker emphasizes that a "right side up life" in God's kingdom is lived "for God and before God," meaning our motivation is for Him and our actions are done in His presence, for His eyes. Jesus assumes His followers will engage in practices like giving, praying, and fasting, as indicated by phrases like "when you give," "when you pray," and "when you fast." The core idea is that right side up living seeks God's reward, not human applause, contrasting with the hypocrites who perform religious deeds to be seen by others. The speaker details first-century practices of prayer, including spontaneous and recited prayers at set times, and fasting, typically a 24-hour period often connected with grieving or serious requests. Jesus calls those who perform for others "hypocrites," a Greek word for an actor wearing a mask, because they put on a show. While these individuals receive the reward of human admiration, Jesus teaches that there is something more valuable found only in God. Secrecy in these practices is presented not as a rule, but as a helpful practice to align one's heart with God and experience His presence in a unique way, as Jesus Himself often sought solitary places to be with the Father. Following Jesus requires effort, but this effort is not about earning salvation; it's about positioning oneself for God's power to work, likened to water skiing where one gets in position and lets the boat do the work. Right side up prayer, modeled by Jesus, is relational, humble, and dependent, aligning our hearts with the Father's. It's not about manipulating God with many words, but about communicating with a Father who knows our needs. Right side up fasting trains our desires to align with God's kingdom, engaging the body to reshape our natural desires, as seen in Isaiah 58, where God critiques fasting done for selfish reasons and calls for fasting that leads to caring for the oppressed and neehttps://www.youtube.com/embed/y3dfLgG7uFc5100https://my.truevi.com/watch/9o3rGh87PNs2025-06-23T02:56:24.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/9o3rGh87PNs/hqdefault.jpgTreasures in Heaven: Matthew 6:19-24This teaching from Matthew chapter 6, verses 19-24, explores how followers of Jesus can place ultimate joy and security in God. The speaker begins by asking what people desire most, referencing a Forbes list of things people desire but never fully attain, such as happiness, money, freedom, peace, joy, balance, fulfillment, and confidence. He shares personal experiences of seeking security in sports, jobs, and money, noting that these pursuits often feel like "grabbing smoke" and don't yield "right side up results." The passage warns against laying up treasures on earth, where "moth and the eater destroy" and "thieves break in and steal," instead encouraging laying up treasures in heaven. The speaker explains that in Jesus's day, treasures included clothing and stored food, which were susceptible to moths, insects, and rats. He connects this to modern desires for accumulating wealth and the worry about finances, cars, college, and travel sports, noting that money and possessions often promise security but are "liars." Jesus teaches that following him is marked by simplicity and generosity. The speaker explains that the "eye is the lamp of the body" metaphor in the passage refers to generosity (a healthy, clear eye) versus stinginess (a bad, dark eye). He quotes theologian Ronald Cider, who states that if the kingdom vision of Jesus doesn't reshape our approach to possessions, we are not living out that vision. The teaching concludes by emphasizing that one cannot serve both God and "mammon" (that which you place your trust in), and that practicing gospel-centered generosity brings joy and security by investing in eternal relationships with God and others.https://www.youtube.com/embed/9o3rGh87PNs5108https://my.truevi.com/watch/JokOnYKlrw82025-06-30T02:53:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/JokOnYKlrw8/hqdefault.jpgTrusting God in Uncertainty: Matthew 6This sermon, part of the "Flipped: Turning the World Right Side Up" series on Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, addresses uncertainty and the fragility of trust. The speaker references Paul's words to the church in Philippi: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with Thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." He shares a personal experience of uncertainty during a trip to Israel, where he learned to relax and trust that details were being handled, much like Jesus's teaching. The speaker emphasizes that living the way of God's Kingdom shapes trust and steadies us in uncertainty. He connects this to Matthew Chapter 5, where Jesus states, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." Jesus's teaching on righteousness, exceeding that of the scribes and Pharisees (Matthew 5:20), is presented not as a status but as a call to action and right relationships. He also highlights Matthew Chapter 6, verse 1, "Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them," clarifying that motive is key in spiritual practices like giving, prayer, and fasting. The sermon then focuses on Jesus's instruction not to worry about life, food, drink, or clothing, as seen in the illustration of the birds of the air and the lilies of the field. Jesus asks, "Which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?" and states, "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." The shttps://www.youtube.com/embed/JokOnYKlrw85107https://my.truevi.com/watch/aXatN_t9HKo2025-07-07T02:53:22.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/aXatN_t9HKo/hqdefault.jpgSermon on the Mount: Judge NotThis teaching, part of a summer series called "Flipped: Turning the World Right Side Up," continues a walk through Jesus's Sermon on the Mount in the book of Matthew, specifically focusing on chapter 7. The speaker emphasizes that living in God's kingdom means leading with love toward others, not judgment or control, because "Love does no wrong to a neighbor. Therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law," as stated in Romans 13:10. The sermon addresses Jesus's command "Judge not, that you be not judged," and the parable of the speck and the log in Matthew 7:1-5. It highlights that the judging Jesus condemns is thinking about others in a way contrary to love, as summarized by John Wesley. The speaker encourages self-awareness and intellectual and emotional honesty, drawing on King David's prayer in Psalm 139:23-24, "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!" The message distinguishes between discernment of right and wrong and condemnation, asserting that believers are "not to cross over to a place belonging only to God and declare the eternal plight of another human being." It also touches on Matthew 18, where Jesus instructs on confronting a sinning brother, clarifying that this is not a contradiction but a call to address wrong while still loving and not playing God. The speaker concludes by discussing Jesus's words about not giving what is holy to dogs or pearls to pigs (Matthew 7:6), interpreting it as a caution against carelessly sharing sacred things with those unwilling or unable to hear, and emphasizing the power of prayer and the Holy Spirit's role in transformation.https://www.youtube.com/embed/aXatN_t9HKo5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/866CFMem4KY2025-07-21T02:55:31.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/866CFMem4KY/hqdefault.jpgFlipped: The Narrow Gate and Covenant LoyaltyThis teaching continues a series called "Flipped" from The Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew chapters 5 through 7. The speaker explains that a "flipped life" is when Jesus shapes a person from the inside out, aligning them with God's rule and reign, which is presented as the world being upside down and Jesus flipping it upright. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus's teachings are not about performance but about transformation over time, starting in the heart. The speaker shares a personal story of loss and finding community at Two Rivers Church, leading to a recommitment to faith and baptism. The message focuses on Matthew chapter 7, where Jesus discusses the narrow gate and the hard way that leads to life, contrasting it with the wide gate and easy way that leads to destruction. The speaker uses the analogy of glassblowing to illustrate how fire transforms glass, relating it to how Jesus uses pressure and challenges to shape and transform believers. He clarifies that Jesus, as a Jewish rabbi, taught in word puzzles and contrasts, such as two gates, two ways, and two trees, which require wrestling with his words to understand. The speaker explains that Jesus's "Torah" or instruction is for those who are new creations in Christ, not a new moral code for behavior modification. The sermon also addresses Jesus's warning about false prophets, who are recognized by their fruits, and the statement that not everyone who says "Lord, Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven. The speaker defines "covenant loyalty" as a life of faithful relational allegiance to God, marked by trust, love, and obedience to Jesus, rather than mere spiritual activity or praying a prayer to invite Jesus into one's heart. He stresses that while spiritual activity doesn't guarantee covenant loyalty, covenant loyalty will be expressed through spiritual activity. The teaching concludes by emphasizing that Jesus is enough for acceptance and transformation, and that the Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, as stated https://www.youtube.com/embed/866CFMem4KY5106https://my.truevi.com/watch/RDD92GeViEg2025-07-28T03:06:53.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/RDD92GeViEg/hqdefault.jpgBuilding on the Rock: An Anchor for the SoulThis teaching concludes the "Flipped" series on Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, focusing on what life looks like in the "Right Side Up Kingdom." The speaker emphasizes that life is not built on performance but on trust, obedience, and transformation. The core message is that "the storm is coming," and the question is what one has built their life on. The "flipped life" is anchored in Jesus, who is strong enough to hold us even when everything else shakes loose. The speaker references Hebrews 6, stating that "We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul. A hope that endures into the inner place behind the curtain." The sermon then delves into Matthew chapter 7, verses 24-27, which describe two kinds of people: the wise man who built his house on the rock and the foolish man who built his house on the sand. Jesus is not leaving room for middle ground, and there is no "spiritual spectrum." The speaker clarifies that "metaphor is not make believe" in scripture, and Jesus's comparison of building on rock versus sand is a powerful point. He stresses that there is no hybrid foundation; one cannot mix rock and sand. Obedience is presented not as rule-keeping or earning acceptance, but as trusting Jesus as one's anchor, fully committed. This obedience is a "new way of life" in the upright kingdom of God, a "biblical hearing" that is connected to doing, as seen in Deuteronomy chapter 6, the "Schma." The speaker explains that adversity reveals what one has anchored their life in, whether it's due to personal mistakes or simply living in a broken world. He shares a personal anecdote about traffic irritation to illustrate how daily life can reveal one's true anchor. The "testing isn't theoretical; it's actually inevitable." The "fall" in verse 27 signifies a total collapse when the anchor fails. The good news is that "our anchor is going to hold." The sermon concludes by connecting the Sermon on the Mount to Old Testament imagery, particularly Moses on the mountain, and emphasizes that Jesus "didn't come to abolish https://www.youtube.com/embed/RDD92GeViEg5105https://my.truevi.com/watch/Xg4643Y09Pc2025-08-11T03:04:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Xg4643Y09Pc/hqdefault.jpgThriving as a Follower of Jesus: 1 Peter 2This message explores what it means to thrive as a follower of Jesus, drawing from 1 Peter chapter 2. The speaker notes that thriving is not for those who have it all together, but for those facing adversity and trying to figure things out. He contrasts thriving with merely surviving, which is just getting by, and emphasizes that thriving involves growing closer to Jesus and allowing that to change how we live. The speaker explains that Peter connects followers of Jesus to Israel's story, showing that Jesus is the completion of that story and that believers join in that completion. He highlights Peter's instruction to put away malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander, which he describes as things that choke out life. The message also addresses what happens when believers drift from Jesus, emphasizing the need to reset and return to Him quickly. The sermon outlines a process for returning to Jesus: clearing space, making choices that reflect who you want to become, taking action to show Jesus' love to others, and reviewing and celebrating how Jesus is helping you grow. The speaker encourages families to engage in this process together, noting that thriving grows where returning to Jesus is normal. He also touches on 1 Peter chapter 2's call to honorable conduct among Gentiles, even when facing unjust suffering, and to honor everyone, love the brotherhood, fear God, and honor the emperor.https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xg4643Y09Pc5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/spWt8qyGvKE2025-08-25T02:51:42.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/spWt8qyGvKE/hqdefault.jpgReset: Living for God's Will (1 Peter 4:1-19)This message continues the "Reset" series, focusing on faith foundations for busy families. The speaker emphasizes that resetting our lives around God's patterns allows His power to shape us, referencing 1 Peter's call to live for the will of God, not human passions. The teaching highlights that following Jesus' patterns will lead to suffering and affliction, as seen in 1 Peter 2:21, where Christ suffered for us, leaving an example. The sermon delves into 1 Peter 4:1-19, urging believers to "arm yourselves with the same way of thinking" as Christ, no longer living for human passions but for God's will. It discusses how aligning with God's patterns will alienate believers from the world and old friends, leading to ridicule. The speaker presents a list of patterns from 1 Peter 4:7-11: being self-controlled and sober-minded, loving one another earnestly, showing hospitality without grumbling, using spiritual gifts to serve, and speaking as one who speaks the oracles of God, all to glorify God through Jesus Christ. The speaker distinguishes between suffering from a broken world, suffering from personal choices, and suffering for the sake of the gospel. He emphasizes that suffering for Christ brings a deep joy and reveals God's faithfulness, citing an experience in China with a pastor released from prison for preaching the gospel. The message concludes by encouraging listeners to integrate God's patterns into their busy lives, relying on the Holy Spirit's strength, and using resources like the "Live It Out" discipleship guide.https://www.youtube.com/embed/spWt8qyGvKE5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/Oh1gifzCU-42025-09-08T03:02:52.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oh1gifzCU-4/hqdefault.jpgKingdom Transformation: Titus 3:3-8This message kicks off "Catalyst," a 40-month journey focused on kingdom transformation. The speaker explains that Jesus transforms individuals to spark transformation in those around them, drawing on Paul's letter to Titus. The sermon includes personal testimonies of transformation, including Addison's story of infant baptism and later choosing to make her own public declaration of faith, and Teresa's story of finding Jesus after a job loss. The teaching focuses on Titus chapter 3, verses 3-8. The speaker reminds listeners of their past state—foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to passions and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. He emphasizes that God saved us not by works of righteousness, but by His mercy, through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit, poured out richly through Jesus Christ. This transformation means believers are no longer who they once were, but are fully known, fully loved, and washed clean by the blood of Jesus. The speaker asserts that this transformation is empowered by the Spirit of God and leads to good works, not as a means to earn righteousness, but as an outflow of the righteousness already given. He highlights that transformed lives are meant to be lived out and shared, making believers "the light of the world" as Jesus declared. The message also details the church's vision for growth, including the addition of a fourth campus in Oak Ridge and plans to invest in two to three new church plants, with an $8 million financial goal for these initiatives.https://www.youtube.com/embed/Oh1gifzCU-45109https://my.truevi.com/watch/dEAmLIawzu42025-09-29T02:56:04.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/dEAmLIawzu4/hqdefault.jpgReal Life: Sent With PurposeThis sermon, part of a new series called "Real Life: Jesus, His Kingdom, and You," begins by emphasizing that real life with Jesus means being sent with purpose to represent him. The speaker reflects on his own past pursuit of the "American dream" and the challenge of consistently representing Jesus in daily life, even for those who love him. He introduces the structure of Matthew's Gospel, noting that chapters 1-4 establish Jesus as the completion of Israel's story, followed by the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7, which parallels Moses giving instruction on Mount Sinai. The series will focus on three teachings of Jesus in Matthew 10, 13, and 18, which describe what it looks like to live in his kingdom. The message then delves into Matthew 9:35-10:15, highlighting Jesus's compassion for the crowds who were "harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd." The speaker notes that Jesus's ministry in chapters 8 and 9 involved healing lepers, calming storms, casting out demons, healing paralytics, calling an unexpected follower, raising the dead, giving sight to the blind, and restoring speech. He emphasizes that representing Jesus begins with seeing people with his compassion, not through cultural lenses that demonize "people groups." The speaker argues that the "enemy of God" is spiritual beings, not human beings of different religious backgrounds, and that those who don't know Jesus are the "mission of God," not the "enemy of God." The sermon examines the list of the twelve disciples in Matthew 10:1-4, specifically Matthew the tax collector and Simon the Zealot, as examples of individuals with radically opposed political backgrounds who found unity in following Jesus. This unity, the speaker asserts, is built on a "spirit-filled identity" that transforms individuals into "new creation in Christ." He stresses that following Jesus is not about adding him to existing priorities like the "American dream," but about setting aside differences and finding common connection in Christ. The speaker also discusses https://www.youtube.com/embed/dEAmLIawzu45104https://my.truevi.com/watch/kOcV9hE1lrk2025-11-03T03:53:40.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/kOcV9hE1lrk/hqdefault.jpgReal Life: The Kingdom Is Worth EverythingThis sermon continues a series in Matthew's gospel called "Real Life," focusing on Jesus's parables about the kingdom of God. The speaker emphasizes that real life with Jesus redefines what we value most, and that following Jesus is not about finding the "best deal" but realizing that life in his kingdom is the "only deal." He references a clip from Pastor Kyle Idan, who states that the most miserable people are those who try to follow Jesus without dying to themselves, seeking benefits without commitment. The speaker connects this to Jesus's teaching in Matthew chapter 10: "Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." The sermon then examines three parables from Matthew chapter 13: the treasure hidden in a field (v. 44), the pearl of great value (v. 45-46), and the net cast into the sea (v. 47-50). The parables of the treasure and the pearl illustrate that the kingdom of God is worth joyfully giving everything for, even if it seems crazy to trade what is seen for what is unseen. The parable of the net, which is similar to the parable of the wheat and the weeds discussed last week, points to a coming judgment and separation at the end of the age, where angels will sort the righteous from the evil. The speaker notes that Jesus's audience, including fishermen, would understand the reference to kosher dietary laws regarding fish with scales and fins versus unclean fish like catfish. The speaker concludes by asking, "What in my life am I still holding on to that keeps me from fully embracing the real life Jesus offers?" He encourages listeners to "close the deal" and not wait to commit their lives to Christ, emphasizing that Christianity is about following a person, Jesus, not just a belief system. He also mentions Operation Christmas Child as an example of making a small investment with huge kingdom impact. The sermon closes with a call to reflect on personal commitment to Jesus and to take intentional next steps in following him.https://www.youtube.com/embed/kOcV9hE1lrk5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/0EBr--LGTJg2025-12-01T04:02:15.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/0EBr--LGTJg/hqdefault.jpgGod's Presence: The Ultimate Christmas GiftThis sermon series, "Christmas Presents," begins by exploring Jesus's presence as the ultimate gift that guides and gives rest. The speaker shares a personal story about receiving a blue tick hound puppy named Rosco as a gift. The message then shifts to God's presence with us as the greatest gift, focusing on Exodus 33. The speaker provides background on Exodus, from God appearing to Moses in a burning bush in Exodus 3, to Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt, through the Red Sea, and to Mount Sinai where God made a covenant and instructed them to build a tabernacle in Exodus 25:8. The narrative then covers the golden calf incident in Exodus 32, leading into Exodus 33:1-6 where God tells Moses He will send an angel but will not go with the people due to their stiff-necked nature. The sermon highlights Moses's intercession in Exodus 33:12-23, where he pleads for God's presence, stating that God's presence is what distinguishes His people. The speaker traces the theme of God dwelling with His people throughout scripture: from Eden in Genesis, through the tabernacle and temple, to Jesus as "God with us" (Matthew 1:25, quoting Isaiah 7), and finally to the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers, making them the temple of the Holy Spirit (Corinthians). The speaker emphasizes that God's presence is better than anything the world offers, drawing a contrast between Moses's initial reluctance in Exodus 3 and his later insistence on God's presence in Exodus 33. The transformation in Moses came from intentionally living in God's presence, as seen in the tent of meeting (Exodus 33:7-11). The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to seek God's guidance and rest by intentionally spending time in His presence, using tangible reminders, engaging with His word, and participating in communion.https://www.youtube.com/embed/0EBr--LGTJg5113https://my.truevi.com/watch/VwPsRNZo-aM2025-12-15T03:52:49.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/VwPsRNZo-aM/hqdefault.jpgJesus: The Fulfillment of God's PromiseThis teaching, part of a Christmas series called "Christmas Presents," focuses on the idea that Jesus is the completion of a promise God made from the very beginning. The speaker encourages listeners to pause and prepare their hearts to hear from God. The sermon begins by discussing the Christmas story, suggesting it starts earlier than commonly thought, specifically in Genesis chapter 3. The speaker explains that the serpent in Genesis 3 represents a spiritual being operating in opposition to God and humanity. After Adam and Eve's rebellion, God announces judgment, but also makes a promise in Genesis 3:14-15 to the serpent: "I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel." This is identified as the first expression of the Gospel, where God promises victory through a "seed" or "offspring" of the woman who will crush the serpent. This promise is later repeated to Abraham and David. The speaker emphasizes that the good news of Jesus is bigger than just individual sin, encompassing a "cosmic battle" against spiritual forces. John's Gospel is cited, stating, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." The Incarnation, God becoming human, is presented as the fulfillment of the Genesis 3:15 promise. The speaker clarifies that the God of the Old Testament, Yahweh, is the same God who became human in Jesus, whose name means "Yahweh is salvation." The author of Hebrews is quoted, stating, "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin." Peter is also quoted, saying, "He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed." Paul's understanding of this promise to Abraham ishttps://www.youtube.com/embed/VwPsRNZo-aM5103https://my.truevi.com/watch/rVOUc5YUKeM2025-12-22T03:59:25.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/rVOUc5YUKeM/hqdefault.jpgChristmas Presence: God's Glory in Jesus (Hebrews 1:1-4)This message explores the idea that Christmas presence reveals God's glory and demands a response. The speaker emphasizes that God has spoken through his Son, Jesus, who is the radiance of God's glory. Drawing from Hebrews 1:1-4, the teaching highlights that Jesus is God's full and final word, greater than angels and prophets like Moses. This understanding calls followers of Jesus to listen to him daily and live actively aware of his presence. The speaker discusses how God has always called his people to relationship, from the prophets in the Old Testament to Jesus' call to "abide in me" in John 15. He explains that Jesus is Yahweh in the flesh, the God of the Old Testament become human, and that God's judgment in the Old Testament was taken upon himself by Jesus. The scriptures are presented as the primary way to hear Jesus' voice, not just as rules but as a relational invitation. Proverbs 8:34 is cited to describe the blessed person as one who listens to God daily. The message concludes by stating that Jesus alone makes God's glory accessible, and following him means daily tapping into this gift. The speaker challenges listeners to consider if they are filling the space of God's presence with other things due to distraction, comfort, seeking validation, numbing pain, or finding transformation hard. Colossians 1:15-18 is used to assert Jesus' supremacy over all creation, both physical and spiritual, as the full and final answer to everything. The invitation is to allow Christmas to be a starting point for actively following the presence of Christ.https://www.youtube.com/embed/rVOUc5YUKeM5106https://my.truevi.com/watch/cyCfOxit0hs2026-01-26T03:52:12.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/cyCfOxit0hs/hqdefault.jpgFaith in Action: Lessons from Matthew 21This teaching from Matthew chapter 21 invites listeners to look honestly at their lives and consider what their faith is producing. The speaker notes that the world is constantly shaking, both physically and through conflict, and asks how followers of Christ can remain unshaken. He states that as followers of Jesus, we confront the world's hypocrisy, and our own, by putting faith into action. The speaker discusses Jesus's interaction with the fig tree in Matthew 21:18-22, interpreting it as a prophetic sign for the nation of Israel, indicating a lack of fruit despite outward appearance. He then moves to Matthew 21:23, where the chief priests and elders question Jesus's authority. Jesus responds with a question about John's baptism, exposing their refusal to acknowledge the truth. Jesus then tells the parable of the two sons (Matthew 21:28-32), emphasizing that faith becomes visible through obedient action, not just intellectual agreement. He explains that in the New Testament, "belief" implies action. The speaker highlights that the religious leaders had every advantage but would not move or change, prioritizing their beliefs over the kingdom of God. He then presents the parable of the vineyard tenants (Matthew 21:33-44), where the owner provides everything but the tenants refuse to give him his fruit, even killing his servants and ultimately his son. This parable, the speaker explains, shows that God will take the kingdom from those who do not produce fruit and give it to others. He clarifies that Jesus is the completion of Israel's story and the new Israel. The speaker encourages listeners to use these parables as a mirror to reflect on their own lives, asking where they are refusing to move or are saying "yes" to Jesus but living as if it doesn't matter. He concludes by emphasizing that hypocrisy is destructive to both believers and the world, and that true faith involves trusting God in both good and bad circumstances, putting faith into action not out of obligation, but through reliance on the Holy Spirit.https://www.youtube.com/embed/cyCfOxit0hs5108https://my.truevi.com/watch/mCwP5iMx5N02026-02-01T11:37:09.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/mCwP5iMx5N0/hqdefault.jpgJesus Confronts Religious LeadersThis teaching continues a study in the book of Matthew, in a series called "Unshaken." The speaker begins by recounting the story of Nathan confronting King David in 2 Samuel, highlighting how Jesus uses storytelling to reach the heart. The focus then shifts to Jesus's confrontations with religious leaders during Passion Week, specifically on Tuesday. The big idea for the weekend is to confront the world's system by choosing love as a response. The message picks up in Matthew 22:15, where the Pharisees plot to entangle Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus responds, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and give to God what is God's." Later that same day, the Sadducees, who believed there was no resurrection, try to trap Jesus with a story about a woman married to seven brothers. Jesus tells them they "do not clearly know the scriptures or the power of God," stating that God is the God of the living, referring to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The crowd was astonished at his teaching (verse 33). The Pharisees then ask Jesus about the greatest commandment. Jesus replies, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind? This is the great and first commandment. And the second is like it. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law of the prophets." He references Deuteronomy 6:4-5. The speaker emphasizes that loving God with an "all-in" love is difficult because people struggle to believe they are truly loved and can fully trust God. The teaching then explores the inseparable nature of loving God and loving others, extending the definition of "neighbor" to include those we didn't choose to love, those who are difficult, and even political opponents. The speaker notes the "vitriol" and "hatred" seen in the church today. Jesus then turns the tables on the religious leaders by asking how David could refer to the Christ as both his son and his Lord. Matthew states they "dared not ask him any more questions." Jesus thhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/mCwP5iMx5N03594https://my.truevi.com/watch/oViCmvzN8FQ2026-03-09T03:49:27.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/oViCmvzN8FQ/hqdefault.jpgRenewal Through Jesus's Faithfulness - Matthew 26This message explores renewal through Jesus's faithfulness, drawing from Matthew chapter 26. The speaker highlights that human faithfulness is fragile and fails under pressure, contrasting it with Jesus's unwavering faithfulness. He references Jesus's words to Peter in Matthew 26:31-32, where Jesus predicts Peter's denial but also promises to go before them to Galilee after being raised up. The teaching emphasizes that renewal comes through obedience, not just effort. It examines Jesus's prayer in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46), where Jesus prays, "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will." This demonstrates Jesus's obedience in facing God's judgment against sin. The speaker notes that Jesus's obedience leads to our renewal and that joy and obedience walk hand in hand, citing Hebrews chapter 12. The sermon concludes by discussing Judas's betrayal and Peter's attempt to defend Jesus with a sword (Matthew 26:47-56). Jesus tells Peter to put his sword away, stating that he could call on his Father for "more than 12 legions of angels" but that the scriptures must be fulfilled. The speaker contrasts Judas, who saw Jesus as a rabbi, with Peter and the other disciples, who called him Messiah and Lord, despite their failures. The message encourages listeners to pursue obedience to Jesus, recognizing that he knows our failures and offers an invitation to renewal.https://www.youtube.com/embed/oViCmvzN8FQ5102https://my.truevi.com/watch/ZAV-PEarVbY2026-04-06T01:40:28.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/ZAV-PEarVbY/hqdefault.jpgEaster: He Is Risen, As He SaidThis Easter sermon begins by describing the quiet despair of the disciples after Jesus' crucifixion, contrasting it with the resurrection. The speaker emphasizes that the good news of Easter is not just that Jesus is alive, but that "he is alive and with us" through the Holy Spirit for those in Christ. This renewal is not a New Year's resolution type of change, but a recreation in God's image, making people new from the inside out. The sermon challenges the narrative of an "angry God," arguing that the Bible's story, from Genesis 1 through 11 and God's promise to Abraham in Genesis chapter 12, is one of God's pursuit of humanity. Matthew's gospel, according to the speaker, reveals God "with us" through Jesus, who became human and launched a kingdom. The resurrection proves Jesus' identity as the God-man, forcing a choice: either the resurrection is true, or it is not. The speaker states that the invitation is to "Come and follow me," not to live as one desires and still go to heaven. The speaker then reads from Matthew 28, describing the angel rolling back the stone, the guards trembling, and the women being told that Jesus "is not here, for he is risen, as he said." Jesus later meets the women and tells them to tell his brothers to go to Galilee. The chief priests pay the guards to spread a false story that the disciples stole the body. Jesus then meets the 11 disciples in Galilee, where he states, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." The speaker explains that "nations" refers to "all people groups" or "ethnicities," connecting it to the promise made to Abraham in Genesis chapter 12. Paul, in Galatians chapter 3, is cited as understanding this promise to be fulfilled in Jesus, not Israel. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that renewal is unlimited because Jesus is "always with us" and that followers of Jhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/ZAV-PEarVbY5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/dEi8As9-CvI2026-04-13T02:55:44.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/dEi8As9-CvI/hqdefault.jpgWhat's Next? Our New Identity in ChristThis teaching begins a new series called "What's Next?" by opening Romans 6. The speaker explains that the resurrection of Jesus didn't just change our future, but also changed who we are. The series will explore living a gospel-centered life, starting with recognizing the new identity followers of Jesus have been given. This new identity leads to a new allegiance, a new kind of community, and a new purpose. The speaker contrasts humanity's position in Adam, which represents sin, rebellion, death, and condemnation, with being in Christ, which represents new life, obedience, and grace. He emphasizes that for those in Christ, their old self was crucified with Jesus, and they are now united to Christ. This means sin's authority over them has been broken, and they are set free from its claims. The teaching highlights that grace is not a license to sin, but leads to transformation, bringing believers into a new reality where they are dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. The sermon encourages listeners to "do the math" by continually considering their resurrected identity in Christ, rather than living from old narratives or identities based on performance, job, or grades. It emphasizes that this truth moves from the head to the heart to habits, leading to transformed lives. The speaker concludes by inviting listeners to ask themselves daily, "What identity am I living from today?" and to allow the Holy Spirit to reveal their true, resurrected identity in Christ.https://www.youtube.com/embed/dEi8As9-CvI5104https://my.truevi.com/watch/1MsGMStpbp82026-04-27T02:50:27.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/1MsGMStpbp8/hqdefault.jpgResurrection Hope and Spirit-Shaped CommunityThis teaching explores what the resurrection produces in those who follow Jesus, focusing on the idea that a gospel-centered life is formed in spirit-shaped community. It emphasizes that the new life Jesus gives is not meant to be lived alone, and that the Spirit shapes believers as they follow Jesus together. The speaker notes that this is the third week of a series called "What's Next," following discussions on a new identity and whole-life allegiance to Jesus. The message draws from Acts chapter 2, starting in verse 42, describing the early church after Pentecost. It highlights how these early followers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers. The speaker explains that resurrection hope produces committed followers, not spectators, and that true hope leads to devotion to God and each other, as Jesus taught about loving God completely and loving others sacrificially. The sermon also discusses "shared participation in grace," explaining that grace is an ongoing, active process, not a one-time gift, as seen in Titus chapter 2, starting in verse 11. It concludes by stating that generosity flows from resurrection hope, not obligation, and that the early church's practice of having all things in common (Acts 2:44-45, Acts 4) was a reordering of priorities—people over possessions, relationships over resources—rather than a strict prescription. The speaker encourages listeners to ask Jesus what next step they are invited to take towards shared life with others.https://www.youtube.com/embed/1MsGMStpbp85103https://my.truevi.com/watch/5JnmQpQuoMM2026-05-25T02:57:34.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/5JnmQpQuoMM/hqdefault.jpgRuth 3: Human Obedience and Divine PromisesThis sermon, part of the "Under Construction" series, focuses on Ruth chapter 3 and the idea that Jesus often uses human obedience as the answer to his own promises. The speaker provides a recap of Ruth chapters 1 and 2, introducing Naomi, Elimelech, Orpah, and Ruth, and the famine in Israel that led Naomi's family to Moab. He explains that Naomi, now called Mara, and Ruth return to Bethlehem, where Ruth gleans in the field of Boaz, a relative and redeemer. The sermon defines redemption as someone stepping in to take back what has been lost and restore it to its rightful place, noting that while Jesus is "the redeemer," other acts of redemption occur. Naomi instructs Ruth to go to the threshing floor at night, anoint herself, and lie at Boaz's feet after he has eaten and drunk. This act of "courageous faith" puts Ruth in a vulnerable place where redemption can reach her. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus isn't counting on human action but wants to work with people, as seen in the stories of the woman with a bleeding condition in Mark chapter 5 and the paralyzed man in Mark chapter 2. Ruth's vulnerability, both to violence and scandal, is highlighted, but her actions are presented as trust in Boaz and in Yahweh, the God of Israel, under whose wings she has taken refuge, as mentioned in Ruth 2:12. Boaz acknowledges her as a "worthy woman" and promises to redeem her if a closer relative does not. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to ask Jesus where they need to trust him enough to take action, emphasizing that redemption requires a willingness to respond and surrender to Jesus. The speaker also mentions Vision Weekend on June 6th and 7th, and a Q&A session on May 27th at 6:00 p.m. in the Fireside Room at Harrison Lane. The sermon closes with a benediction from John chapter 15, reminding listeners that with Jesus, anything is possible.https://www.youtube.com/embed/5JnmQpQuoMM5101https://my.truevi.com/watch/rUqkEoxzO7w2026-08-10T02:50:44.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/rUqkEoxzO7w/hqdefault.jpgObscured: Go Back to the Truth (1 John 1:1-4)This sermon begins a five-week series in 1 John, titled "Obscured," which aims to guide listeners through life's hazy moments with God as their guide. The speaker, Tim, introduces the sermon by reminding the audience that God is not distant and is "not short-handed to give us what we need," referencing Lamentations 3, which states, "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end. They're new every morning." The author of Lamentations also says, "Great is your faithfulness, Lord," and "the Lord is my portion says my soul. In him will I hope." Mark, the speaker for the main sermon, uses the story of Florence Chadwick, an American swimmer who failed to complete a 26-mile swim from Catalina Island to the California coast due to a dense fog, as a metaphor for the Christian life. He explains that John wrote his letter to churches in and around Ephesus to caution them against those who were distorting the gospel. John's message is to "look to the light" when life gets hazy. Mark outlines three instructions from 1 John. First, "go back to the truth" (1 John 1:1-4), proclaiming the gospel to oneself, emphasizing that Jesus is "the light of the world" (John 8:12). He connects this to John's Gospel, stating, "In the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it." Second, "walk in the light" (1 John 1:5-10), which means being honest about one's sin and not lying to oneself or others. He clarifies that walking in the light does not mean living a perfect life, but rather moving in a "pattern toward light and righteousness." Third, "embrace the work of our advocate" (1 John 2:1-2), Jesus Christ, who is the "propitiation of our sins and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world." The sermon concludes with a call to cohttps://www.youtube.com/embed/rUqkEoxzO7w5107https://my.truevi.com/watch/uYK3epfzUDQ2019-03-26T17:00:37.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/uYK3epfzUDQ/hqdefault.jpgHebrews 11:33-40: Living by FaithThis teaching continues a verse-by-verse study of Hebrews chapter 11, focusing on examples of ordinary men and women who lived by faith. The speaker emphasizes that faith is most exercised in adverse situations, not when things are going well. Hebrews 11:1 is cited: "faith is being sure of what we hope for in certain of what we do not see." The discussion highlights 17 individuals mentioned by name in chapter 11, along with others summarized, as encouraging examples of trusting God in extraordinary ways. The sermon picks up at Hebrews 11:32, listing Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, and Samuel. Jephthah's story from Judges chapter 11 is summarized, noting his rejection by his half-brothers and his foolish vow, but emphasizing his faith in God despite his background. David, whose name means "beloved," is discussed, acknowledging his flaws like the affair with Bathsheba and his passivity as a father, as seen in 1 Kings chapter 1 and 2 Samuel 13. However, David is included in the "Hall of Faith" because of his faith, not his flaws, as demonstrated in his youth when confronting Goliath in 1 Samuel chapter 17, where he declared, "I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty." Samuel, the 17th person mentioned by name, is presented as a prophet used by God, whose story begins with his mother Hannah's vow to God. Samuel's faithfulness to hear, do, and go where God directed is highlighted. The teaching then covers the unnamed individuals in Hebrews 11:33-38, including references to Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, the woman of Zarephath, the Shunammite woman, Jeremiah, Joseph, and Isaiah. The speaker explains that "none of them received what had been promised" (Hebrews 11:39) refers to Jesus, the ultimate promise, whom Old Testament saints saw from a distance. The teaching concludes by briefly introducing Hebrews 12:1-3, connecting the "great cloud of witnesses" from chapter 11 to the call to "run with perseverance the race marked out for us," fixing our eyes on Jesus.https://www.youtube.com/embed/uYK3epfzUDQ2357https://my.truevi.com/watch/YtTnKPLzGQk2019-03-26T17:02:23.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/YtTnKPLzGQk/hqdefault.jpgCourage for the Discouraged | Jeremiah 45 | Gary Hamrick3/10/2019 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net/ Discouragement comes in many forms. Heartache is no respecter of persons. In the book of Jeremiah, a guy by the name of Baruch is experiencing his share of discouragement and describes it with words like “sorrow”, “pain”, “being worn out”, “groaning”, and “without rest.” Could that describe you? Have you ever felt so discouraged that it was palpable and painful? Have you ever been so worn out with grief and sorrow, so exhausted with discouragement, that you couldn’t sleep? Have you ever cried so much that you had no more tears? Pastor Gary brings a word of encouragement today from Jeremiah 45 in a teaching entitled, “Courage for the Discouraged.” Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/YtTnKPLzGQk2409https://my.truevi.com/watch/ouwjW9GUGPg2019-04-16T15:20:01.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/ouwjW9GUGPg/hqdefault.jpgPalm Sunday Past, Present, and Future | Luke 19:28-44 | Gary Hamrick4/14/2019 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net As Jesus approached Jerusalem for the final week of His life prior to His crucifixion, He was met by those who were rejoicing and those who were rejecting Him. Even those who were rejoicing would soon cry out for His crucifixion when Jesus did not deliver the way they had hoped. That’s because Jesus’ mission was greater than providing political peace. Jesus came for the sins of the world to offer us personal peace with God through a relationship with Him. In today’s message, Pastor Gary connects the Palm Sunday story of the past with the present and the future—looking ahead to a time when all the saints will be worshiping Jesus around the throne of Heaven. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/ouwjW9GUGPg2225https://my.truevi.com/watch/2w0Tj8meHf82019-04-16T15:29:16.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/2w0Tj8meHf8/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | 1 Thessalonians 1 | Gary Hamrick2/7/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/2w0Tj8meHf83013https://my.truevi.com/watch/GMG4avqWF7w2019-04-16T15:30:49.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/GMG4avqWF7w/hqdefault.jpgOn the Hunt for Happiness and Satisfaction | Ecclesiastes 2 | Gary Hamrick2/4/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Have you ever looked for happiness and satisfaction in different places or different people, only to end up feeling empty or disappointed? Solomon had. And he wrote about it in Ecclesiastes. His latter years were marked by a hunt for happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and meaning. He looked everywhere except up. He eventually realized that life without God is a continual “wild goose chase” without ever getting the goose. Pastor Gary teaches from chapter 2 about the common ways we mimic Solomon’s life with the Pleasure Hunt, the Measure Hunt, and the Treasure Hunt. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/GMG4avqWF7w2619https://my.truevi.com/watch/xP2ldJaNtPc2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/xP2ldJaNtPc/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | Titus 1 | Gary Hamrick9/12/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/xP2ldJaNtPc2315https://my.truevi.com/watch/wPPYxIqoYC02019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/wPPYxIqoYC0/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | 2 Timothy 4 | Gary Hamrick9/5/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/wPPYxIqoYC02834https://my.truevi.com/watch/vtSZy9XYXAk2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/vtSZy9XYXAk/hqdefault.jpgUnderstanding Evil in Our World | Ecclesiastes 4 | Gary Hamrick2/18/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Have you ever looked at all the evil, injustice, and oppression in the world and wondered where God was in all of that? Solomon did. And many people do today too. It causes some to question the existence of God, or the goodness of God, or the meaning of life. But Pastor Gary offers a perspective that will bring hope and comfort to all who have been impacted by the injustice and wickedness of our world. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/vtSZy9XYXAk2156https://my.truevi.com/watch/u4i5gxjIVN42019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/u4i5gxjIVN4/hqdefault.jpgGod’s Love | Song of Solomon 6-8 | Gary Hamrick4/22/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net While the book of Song of Solomon is a literal love story between King Solomon and his one true love, the story can also be viewed allegorically. An allegory is a literary tool that communicates a hidden meaning in the story. Song of Solomon can be seen as God’s love story for us. Some people have a hard time believing that God loves them. Some find it difficult to receive God’s unmerited, unconditional love. But in today’s study, Pastor Gary unpacks the examples of God’s love in this story and encourages us to believe that God loves us and to receive His love for ourselves. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/u4i5gxjIVN42221https://my.truevi.com/watch/tkDPbM6ZzTw2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/tkDPbM6ZzTw/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | Hebrews 3 | Gary Hamrick11/7/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/tkDPbM6ZzTw2966https://my.truevi.com/watch/tQb2pysazoc2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/tQb2pysazoc/hqdefault.jpgQuestion and Answer Services | Gary Hamrick & Andy Wagner12/30/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Join us for our annual Question and Answer services. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albumshttps://www.youtube.com/embed/tQb2pysazoc6629https://my.truevi.com/watch/rcLwbZZg_Qo2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/rcLwbZZg_Qo/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | 1 Timothy 5 | Gary Hamrick7/25/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/rcLwbZZg_Qo2982https://my.truevi.com/watch/oqTMGwnr2082019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/oqTMGwnr208/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | Hebrews 1 | Gary Hamrick10/17/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/oqTMGwnr2082449https://my.truevi.com/watch/j9Dq4gkzwbs2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/j9Dq4gkzwbs/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | 2 Timothy 2:8-26 | Gary Hamrick8/22/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/j9Dq4gkzwbs3030https://my.truevi.com/watch/inZb3mGfQZ42019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/inZb3mGfQZ4/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | 1 Timothy 2:12-3:2 | Gary Hamrick6/20/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/inZb3mGfQZ42120https://my.truevi.com/watch/iCW2RWOQ8Aw2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/iCW2RWOQ8Aw/hqdefault.jpgAll Are Welcome | Isaiah 56 | Gary Hamrick9/2/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net In Isaiah 56, the prophet Isaiah addresses the problem of exclusivity—that God’s people thought of themselves as an exclusive club to which “foreigners” and “outcasts” were not invited. In addition, God expresses His heart for those who felt excluded. This is both a warning to those who feel exclusive with God, and a welcome to those who feel excluded from God. It is good for us to examine our own hearts in these areas—do we have any prejudice toward people that we have excluded? Or perhaps we think that God doesn’t love us or accept us, and we feel excluded. Both perspectives are wrong and Pastor Gary helps us to align our hearts with the heart of God in today’s study entitled, “All Are Welcome.” Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/iCW2RWOQ8Aw2418https://my.truevi.com/watch/hWYCj99UCiM2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/hWYCj99UCiM/hqdefault.jpgAnswers to the Questions You Thought We Forgot | Creation vs. Evolution | Gary Hamrick4/18/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Join us as Pastor Gary, Dr. Jill Durot, and Dr. Lu Wing answer questions related to the topic of Creation vs. Evolution. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrick #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapelhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/hWYCj99UCiM3786https://my.truevi.com/watch/gbaUO4utam42019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/gbaUO4utam4/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | 1 Timothy 6 | Gary Hamrick8/1/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/gbaUO4utam42780https://my.truevi.com/watch/gZpcvYdYScY2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/gZpcvYdYScY/hqdefault.jpgCourtship Love | Song of Solomon 1-2 | Gary Hamrick4/8/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net The book of Song of Solomon (or Song of Songs) is a love story. It’s the romance between a young man and a young woman set to music that describes their courtship, marriage, and ultimate sexual consummation of the relationship. It can be interpreted allegorically (that it is not a factual relationship, but only a picture that symbolizes God’s love for Israel or Christ’s love for the Church), but a better way to interpret it is literally (with a secondary meaning)—that it is a real, historical, love relationship between a man and a woman which also parallels the love of God for us. Sex is a gift God has given us to be celebrated between a man and a woman in a monogamous, heterosexual marriage. In part one of this series, Pastor Gary will examine “Courtship Love”—guidelines from this story for those who are in a courting/dating relationship in preparation for marriage. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/gZpcvYdYScY2638https://my.truevi.com/watch/f2bIxIYqOZo2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/f2bIxIYqOZo/hqdefault.jpgStand for What is Right | Jeremiah 25-26 | Gary Hamrick2/3/2019 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net We are living in a time when Christians need to stand for what is right and live for what is true without the fear of man. In Jeremiah 26, the prophet Jeremiah was threatened with death at the hands of his own countrymen simply because he spoke the truth and stood for what was right. Nevertheless, Jeremiah remained faithful to God and stood his ground without regard to the personal cost. God protected him that day, and his life was spared. But another prophet by the name of Uriah did not fare as well. While Uriah was a good prophet who spoke the truth like Jeremiah, he ran in fear when people opposed him and threatened his life. In the end, he was killed. It’s a sharp contrast for us between those who stand for what is right and enjoy God’s protection, and those who run in fear and are cut down. Join Pastor Gary in Jeremiah 26 for today’s study, “Stand for What is Right.” Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/f2bIxIYqOZo2200https://my.truevi.com/watch/e8WpTtkSp0c2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/e8WpTtkSp0c/hqdefault.jpgA Living Hope | Matthew 28:1-8 | Gary Hamrick4/1/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/e8WpTtkSp0c4229https://my.truevi.com/watch/dgrsWbG-FOI2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/dgrsWbG-FOI/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | 2 Thessalonians 1 | Gary Hamrick5/2/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/dgrsWbG-FOI2734https://my.truevi.com/watch/dA2HxwZwVqg2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/dA2HxwZwVqg/hqdefault.jpgAnswers to the Questions You Thought We Forgot | End Times | Gary Hamrick4/25/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/dA2HxwZwVqg3132https://my.truevi.com/watch/crZ8kNV3XDU2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/crZ8kNV3XDU/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | Hebrews 6:4-6 | Gary Hamrick12/12/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/crZ8kNV3XDU2541https://my.truevi.com/watch/cEnlohXIVGo2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/cEnlohXIVGo/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | Hebrews 4:1-13 | Gary Hamrick11/14/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/cEnlohXIVGo2701https://my.truevi.com/watch/buYGeg9n6lo2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/buYGeg9n6lo/hqdefault.jpgUnmet Expectations | John 12:12-16 | Gary Hamrick3/25/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net In today’s Palm Sunday message, Pastor Gary reminds us of the unmet expectations the people felt when Jesus came into Jerusalem as Messiah. Their idea of “Savior” was not one who would die on a cross for their sins, but one who would overthrow Roman occupation and usher in the Jewish Nation. When that didn’t happen, the people rejected Him altogether and crucified Him. What do we do when God doesn’t do what we think He should do? How do we handle life’s disappointments and heartaches when God doesn’t show up the way we had hoped? Pastor Gary addresses that with some suggestions from Scripture in today’s teaching entitled, “Unmet Expectations.” Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/buYGeg9n6lo2404https://my.truevi.com/watch/bcOzM-XShus2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/bcOzM-XShus/hqdefault.jpgLet’s Reason Together | Isaiah 1-5 | Gary Hamrick4/29/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Isaiah describes the people of Judah in his day (740B.C.) as disobedient, ignorant, and defiant towards God and His Laws. As a result, the nation of Judah was guilty of various sins and in danger of destruction by the Assyrian army. Ironically, the way Isaiah describes his generation is not too dissimilar to our own. And yet the same hope and remedy for the people of Judah is available to us as well. Stay tuned to the end of the teaching as Pastor Gary shares a key verse in the book of Isaiah (1:18) to remind us of our merciful Father in Heaven. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/bcOzM-XShus2520https://my.truevi.com/watch/XA1kZ0n-ak02019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/XA1kZ0n-ak0/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | Titus 2-3 | Gary Hamrick10/3/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/XA1kZ0n-ak02391https://my.truevi.com/watch/WjYmo4NluJE2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/WjYmo4NluJE/hqdefault.jpgA Prayer for Idol Hearts | Jeremiah 10 | Gary Hamrick11/18/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net A problem that plagued Israel throughout their history was idolatry. Idolatry is the worship of man-made, hand-carved objects of wood and stone instead of the true and living God. It seems so primitive and senseless to us that people would actually bow down to and worship inanimate objects. Truth is, you don’t have to carve, pray to, or worship something for it to become an idol. Anything that compromises our devotion to God or competes with our affection for God is potentially an idol. An idol is not always something bad itself; it can be a regular thing that becomes an ultimate thing in our lives which we serve with our time, energy, and money. Are there idols in your life that you have elevated above God? Are there things, people, or practices that have stolen your heart and rob God of the glory He is due? Follow along in today’s study with Pastor Gary from Jeremiah 10. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/WjYmo4NluJE2033https://my.truevi.com/watch/UiW5e1Dgu002019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/UiW5e1Dgu00/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | Hebrews 12:18-13:25 | Gary Hamrick4/3/2019 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/UiW5e1Dgu002593https://my.truevi.com/watch/TkR4lD8don82019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/TkR4lD8don8/hqdefault.jpgForget the Past | Isaiah 43 | Gary Hamrick8/5/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net If you have no regrets in life, it’s probably because you haven’t lived long enough. We all have regrets; regrets about things we’ve done or said; regrets about things left undone or unsaid; regrets about what happened to us, or things that never happened that he had wished for. What we do with our regrets is the difference between someone who moves forward and someone who is stuck in the past. God says to us in Isaiah 43:18, “Forget the former things. Do not dwell on the past.” But what does that mean? And how do we do that? This is the subject of today’s study from the book of Isaiah with Pastor Gary. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/TkR4lD8don82221https://my.truevi.com/watch/T4P3YpkPMCY2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/T4P3YpkPMCY/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 | Gary Hamrick5/9/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/T4P3YpkPMCY2677https://my.truevi.com/watch/SPGbALEMs-02019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/SPGbALEMs-0/hqdefault.jpgEvery Morning is Another Chance | Lamentations 1-5 | Gary Hamrick4/7/2019 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net The book of Lamentations is a book that “laments” the destruction of Jerusalem in 586B.C. by the Babylonians. Lamentations describes the tragic and terrible results of a people who rejected God—a people who refused to turn FROM their idolatry and sin and turn TO God. The consequences for their sin were devastating. But in the middle of all the sin and destruction and devastation emerges a passage from Chapter 3 about the love, mercy, compassion, and faithfulness of God! When we realize our own sinful condition and how it can leave us feeling discouraged, bitter, discontent, and distant from God, it’s important to remember that we can run to a God who is loving, compassionate, merciful, and faithful. And Lamentations 3:23 reminds us that all those qualities about God are new every morning! In other words, every day is a new day and another chance with the Lord! Whatever might be your past—whether yesterday or years ago—there is a fresh batch of God’s love, mercy, and compassion for you today. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/SPGbALEMs-02318https://my.truevi.com/watch/RwodMR_G_nw2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/RwodMR_G_nw/hqdefault.jpgWisdom for the Crossroads | Jeremiah 6:16 | Gary Hamrick11/4/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net All of us will face moments in life when critical decisions must be made; times when different roads intersect and we need to figure out which way to go and what to do. Making the right decisions can lead to the kind of “rest for your souls” mentioned in Jeremiah 6:16, and making the wrong decisions can lead to short term or long term regret, depending on the seriousness of the situation. What do you do when you are at a crossroads in life? In today’s teaching, Pastor Gary takes a look at Jeremiah 6:16 which gives us some counsel and wisdom for the crossroads of life. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/RwodMR_G_nw2377https://my.truevi.com/watch/RZ_NnXerfVk2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/RZ_NnXerfVk/hqdefault.jpgA Full Life On Empty | Ecclesiastes 1 | Gary Hamrick1/28/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net The book of Ecclesiastes tackles some hard issues about life. Written from the perspective of an older man looking back at life, Solomon expresses disappointment, frustration, and regret. He became jaded and cynical in his latter years due to bad choices he had made over the course of a lifetime. But Ecclesiastes is not just a depressing journal of an old king, it’s a reminder that someone like Solomon can have everything in life—money, fame, power, success, relationships—and still not be satisfied if God is not in the equation. His story is repeated countless times in our world. But by the end of the book, Solomon comes to a wonderful conclusion. Join us for today’s teaching with Pastor Gary from Ecclesiastes 1. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/RZ_NnXerfVk2479https://my.truevi.com/watch/Pbozh824Eko2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/Pbozh824Eko/hqdefault.jpgOut of the Desert | Isaiah 31-35 | Gary Hamrick6/24/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Life is filled with its share of trials and tribulations. We often describe these times like a “desert experience.” Isaiah writes about this theme in Chapter 35 and how God will once again cause the desert to bloom and cause the redeemed of the Lord to be crowned with joy. In its future interpretation, Isaiah is speaking of the Millennial Kingdom when Christ will rule and reign on Earth for 1000 years. But in its near interpretation, he writes about God’s sustaining grace through the trials of everyday life. In 1925 a wonderful Daily Devotional was written by Lettie B. Cowman entitled, Streams in the Desert. It was inspired by Isaiah 35:6 and it is still published today after more than 90 years! Born out of her own personal anguish, this Devotional speaks of how Christ refreshed her like a Stream in the Desert. Join Pastor Gary for today’s study from Isaiah 35 entitled, “Out of the Desert.” Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/Pbozh824Eko2030https://my.truevi.com/watch/PKhosZaBED02019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/PKhosZaBED0/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | Colossians 1:21-2:23 | Gary Hamrick1/10/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/PKhosZaBED03408https://my.truevi.com/watch/P-GxOKWjyH02019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/P-GxOKWjyH0/hqdefault.jpgA Serious Wound | Jeremiah 3-6 | Gary Hamrick10/28/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net There is a lot of evil in our world. We all see it. But often times, we detach ourselves from the evil in the world and quietly, subconsciously whisper to ourselves that we are better than all the “bad guys” in the world. Truth is, we are all “bad guys” and there is only one Good Guy who died for the all the bad guys and girls in the world—Jesus Christ! Only through Him can we have forgiveness and receive a new heart and a new life! Mankind is not the solution to mankind’s problem; Jesus is! In today’s study, Pastor Gary tackles the uncomfortable topic of sin in our world and how we all stand guilty before a holy God. Fortunately for us, that same holy, perfect God sent His Son into the world to make us righteous before God through faith in Christ. Our hope, forgiveness, and peace is found in Christ alone. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/P-GxOKWjyH02504https://my.truevi.com/watch/NSOQ42LKEp42019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/NSOQ42LKEp4/hqdefault.jpgThanksgiving Eve Service | Gary Hamrick11/21/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Our annual Thanksgiving Eve service is devoted entirely to worship and testimonies, giving God thanks for all He has done in the past year. Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/NSOQ42LKEp43279https://my.truevi.com/watch/IUEVGMB4xZo2019-04-16T20:03:48.000Zhttps://i.ytimg.com/vi/IUEVGMB4xZo/hqdefault.jpgVerse by Verse Bible Study | 1 Timothy 4 | Gary Hamrick7/11/2018 Learn more about Cornerstone Chapel: http://www.cornerstonechapel.net Subscribe to Cornerstone Chapel | https://www.youtube.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonechapel Follow us on Twitter | https://twitter.com/cornerstonechpl Follow us on Flickr | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cornerstonechapel/albums #Cornerstonechapel #Calvarychapel #GaryHamrickhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/IUEVGMB4xZo2599