Be a Good Worker

Jeff Gordon
2 Timothy 2:15-26

God's grace empowers us to be good workers for the Lord. Those who work hard under God's grace take a stand on truth. Paul's audience does not live a life like this. They have instead drifted away from the truth and have shame-filled lives. Paul reminds them of the foundation of God's truth -- we were designed by God to know Him personally and are motivated by His love and commitment to us. With this core truth in mind, we can run away from sin and run toward righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace.

Elijah's Departure

Gary DeLashmutt
2 Kings 2:1-12

After God lifted Elijah out of a state of deep spiritual depression, He called on Elijah to anoint Elisha to succeed him as prophet. Elisha becomes Elijah's protege and helper. Many years pass, and Elijah knows that the time has come for him to depart from this world. Elisha travels with Elijah as he goes from place to place, and remains with him until God takes Elijah away. From this portion of the story, we learn about an aspect of his career that was not so dramatic, though exceedingly important: his investment in discipleship relationships. This teaching focuses on the importance developing deep friendships as a means of spiritual growth. In addition, we get a glimpse of Elisha's character as he enters into the position of filling Elijah's shoes, and discuss some of the possible reasons for the unusual and dramatic end to Elijah's career.

The Last Supper

Dennis McCallum
Exodus 12:3-9

Jesus' last supper brings up the importance of the New Testament practice of communion. Jesus' call to eat the bread and drink the wine was foreshadowing his ultimate payment of sins on the cross. Today, communion is a New Testament practice for believers to share in fellowship and remember the importance of Jesus' work on the cross. Focusing on what God did on the cross can lead us to a greater appreciation for Jesus' sacrifice and also the unique bond between all believers through the Holy Spirit.

Getting Real

Jim Leffel
2 Corinthians 2:1-4

Paul's desire to see the Corinthians again highlights characteristics of their relationship. Paul's relationship with the Corinthians could be described as high-risk with close-bonds. He was genuine and clearly communicated his love for the Corinthians, shared deep compassion with them, was convinced of this relationship based around God, and encountered much joy and confidence in them. These types of close relationships are effective and satisfying and should be the general trend within Christian community.

Living in the Future Now

Jim Leffel
1 Thessalonians 5:12-24

We can live distinctly in Christian community because of God's involvement. It is His will that His people live in peace. His power transforms us and results in changed lives. Christian community should have five distinct qualities: 1) encouragement; 2) admonition; 3) helpfulness; 4) patience; and 5) graciousness. God cares for our lives and is faithful to bring about positive changes.

The New Worship & Spiritual Leaders

Gary DeLashmutt
Hebrews 13:7

The next piece of the new worship reminds believers to consider their leaders. Three ways to do this are to: 1) choose them carefully (test them against Scripture), 2) imitate their faith (and their commitment to others), and 3) obey and submit to them (in biblical matters, respecting the authority they have been entrusted with). These ultimately come from the mutual desire to succeed as a church!

The New Worship & Loving People

Gary DeLashmutt
Hebrews 13:1-3

The new worship involves loving people with our lives. There are three distinct groups that people fall into, and how we can love each of them varies. The first group, other followers of Christ, are people we should love as family. These are people we should be deeply invested in. The second group, strangers, are people we should show hospitality to and not neglect. These are people we should be seeking out and moving towards. The last group, those in prison or who are ill-treated, are people we should allow God to open our hearts to love. These are people we should have a burden for.

Responding to Jesus' Gift

Gary DeLashmutt
Hebrews 10:19-25

Shifting from theological argument to practical application, the author gives suggestions on how to respond to Jesus' gift of salvation. He says that his audience should: 1) cultivate relational closeness with God, 2) keep sharing their faith with others, and 3) keep inciting one another to live out God's love. He warns against auto-pilot and stagnant faith without active love and service.

Joy and Spiritual Unity

Jim Leffel
Philippians 2:1-3

Under great stress you learn more about who you really are. Suffering brings out critical weaknesses and also reveals your true priorities. Unity is essential in the midst of suffering. As Christians, we have a corporate identity in Christ and each other, through the Holy Spirit. Paul explains to the Philippians what spiritual unity looks like in every day life.