The Upper Room

Dennis McCallum
John 13:1-17

Jesus is with his disciples before the Passover and is awaiting the hour which he will go to the Cross and take on God's judgment, causing him great agony. While the disciples among him were arguing on who was the greatest, Jesus began to wash their feet, placing himself in the position of servant to serve the needs of the disciples. Jesus did this to serve as an example of radical self-sacrificial love that he wanted his followers to emulate. Today, Christians are called to love one another in the way Jesus did, as it shows the outside world that we are his followers and will lead to real satisfaction in our lives as we look to meet the needs of others. This takes real practice and isn't simply a theoretical, but must be accompanied by action.

Following Jesus' Example

Ryan Lowery
Philippians 1:27-2:13

Once we have received the gospel, we are called to live lives that reflect what God has done in our life. The apostle Paul advocates this to the church of Philippi. Paul highlights three aspects of understanding God's love: 1) Placing a high value on unity with other Christians; 2) God is sovereign; and 3) God's love includes letting us suffer. Rather than shy away from, God calls us to draw close to Him and one another as we try and emulate Jesus' love and humility in our lives.

The Key to Happiness

Scott Risley
John 13:1-35

During Jesus' final night on earth, he had dinner with his disciples and washed their feet. His shocking act of humility was a powerful example of sacrificial service. Once we come into a relationship with Jesus, he wants us to embrace a lifestyle of serving others. Although pain and sacrifice are often involved in serving, Jesus promises that this is the path to experiencing true joy and happiness in life.\r\n

The Humble Messiah

Dennis McCallum
John 12:12-34

Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey for his triumphal entry, reflecting the humility he would exemplify as he went to the cross. The people of Jesus' time were surprised as they were expecting a conquering King who would bring power and destroy the Romans. Jesus is distinguishing himself from other rulers as he lived a life of radical self-sacrifice, a lifestyle he calls his followers to as well. Jesus was glorified as he gave himself up for the world at the cross. Jesus' mission wasn't to establish the perfect order, but to offer forgiveness for those who want a personal relationship with God.

Self-Promotion vs. Humility

Gary DeLashmutt
Luke 14:7-14

Jesus uses a unique parable to contract true versus false spirituality to the Jewish religious leaders in His time. The main principle within the parable is that God is opposed to those who exalt and promote self, but pleased and eager to show support towards those who are humble before Him. As we are more sensitized through the Holy Spirit about our tendency to exalt self, God is able to work powerfully to transform us into more radically humble servants in order to please Him.

Abide in Christ - Refining our Motives for Ministry

Jeff Gordon
Luke 14:7-14

When we attempt to do work for God, we are often confronted with our imperfect motives and sinful hearts. We need to grow roots deep into Christ by abiding, in order to have the power to really love people.

God Space - Where Apologetics Happen Naturally

Doug Pollock
Luke 14:7-14

Christian author, Doug Pollock, illustrates helpful evangelism strategies and goals through a conversation he once had with a woman while on a flight. As he describes the story, he highlights listening to the Spirit's prompting, asking questions to show interest in a person's life, and finding common ground. As he bridges the conversation into a spiritual topic, he remains a curious listener but also speaks up to help point out to the woman what she has really revealed that she believes. Through this example, we can gain numerous helpful tools for our own evangelism.

Affliction and the Shape of Faith

Jim Leffel
1 Thessalonians 3:1-13

For Christians, affliction is a product of the spiritual war in the world. It can often leave people disturbed, tempted, disappointed, or with negative habits. Responding well to affliction requires preparation, encouragement, and an outward focus. Responding well to suffering can take a proud heart and teach it humility and brokenness.

Light Comes Into Darkness

Dennis McCallum
John 9:1-41

Jesus sees a blind man and heals his ailment on the Sabbath. As the healed man is taken before the Pharisees, Jesus uses this miracle as a demonstration to combat the Pharisees legalistic perspective. The Pharisees were self-righteous and thought they were put together, whereas the blind man was totally blind and admitted his need for Jesus. The purpose of Jesus' work on the cross was to open the eyes of the spiritually blind when they ask for his forgiveness. However, many are like the Pharisees and suspect they are not in need of assistance.