The Mystery of Christ

Ben Foust
Ephesians 3:1-13

The author Paul encourages the Ephesians not to lose heart despite circumstances. He ruminates on his own circumstances (being imprisoned) and emphasizes his confidence in God's plan. The teaching focuses on the fulfilled mystery of Christ and how God's plan has been consistent from the beginning; this can assure us of God's purpose despite our circumstances.

Sermon on the Plain: An Invitation to Discipleship (Part 1)

Jim Leffel
Luke 6:17-49

God wants to give us real satisfaction and security, which material wealth cannot provide. Wealth brings the danger of emptiness, false security, and numbing our need for God. The poor and those in suffering are blessed because they are often able to see their need for Christ and what He provides. Rather than relying on acceptance from other people, our lives can shape their opinions about God.

Saying "No" to God

Dennis McCallum
Hebrews 3:1-19

The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish believers struggling with disbelief and persecution. The author compared their struggles with the challenges the Israelites faced when Moses led them. The Israelites also struggled with disbelief concerning God's power and provision. They ended up saying ?no? when God called them to enter the promised land. When we undergo persecution we may also be tempted to say no to what God is calling us to do.

6 Principles for Suffering

Ryan Lowery
1 Peter 4:7-19

All people experience suffering in this life that threatens to overwhelm us. Fortunately, the Bible speaks of the incredible opportunity that suffering brings for a Christian. In order to persevere through this suffering, we must: 1) remember God's plan; 2) be sober-minded; 3) be prayerful; 4) love others; 5) not be surprised and 6) trust God's faithfulness.

God's Ways Always Triumph in the End

Ryan Lowery
1 Peter 3:8-4:2

The idea that God blesses those who are righteous and punishes those who are wicked is challenged by our observations about the world around us. In an eternal sense, those who trust in Christ will ultimately win out. Though Christians may suffer in this life, they have the opportunity to share God's love with with confidence that it is worth it in the end.

Is Jesus Worth it?

Ryan Lowery
1 Peter 1:23-2:12

Jesus is a polarizing figure. Following Him sometimes requires giving up time, comfort, or worldly success. Many ask, "Is it worth it?" The answer to this question is resolved when we consider that Jesus provides meaning, hope, and community to those who follow him.

Join with Me in Suffering for the Gospel

Jim Leffel
2 Timothy 1:8-14

Paul advocates that Timothy follow his example and suffer for the sake of the gospel. The basis for us living radically and suffering for the sake of God comes from the immense calling He has given us through the gospel. Christians have eternal work that has been set apart for them since eternity past and has come to fruition through Jesus Christ, which we are to live out with a focus on God's truth.

Waiting on God

Chris Hearty
2 Samuel 23:13-17

In David's psalm he shares his longing to dwell with the Lord forever. David models spiritual confidence in the face of adversity and human opposition. He expresses God's trustworthiness and encourages the assembly to endure in waiting on the Lord.

Suffering in Perspective

Ryan Lowery
1 Peter 1:3-12

Christians are given an eternal hope that is in stark contrast to the cynicism of modern-day culture. Perseverance through pain, suffering, and trials requires confidence in this living hope. The result of suffering victoriously through trials is a purified and strengthened faith.