"Easter: The Great Reversal" Text: Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
On this Easter Sunday, Pastor Jon suggests that the truth of the matter is revealed to us on Good Friday…. all of creation is hushed on Black Saturday, holding its collective breath… and on Resurrection morning, Jesus breathes out this word: BUT. And the Great Reversal begins. Sins are forgiven. Addictions are broken. Marriages are restored. Hope is renewed. Purpose is discovered. And death itself begins to work backward.
"Connect. Grow. SERVE."
Text: Ephesians 4:1-6, 11-16
The last of a three-part series, we explore what it means to use the right tools in the hands of the right person for the right job. The elements of service are so tightly woven into the fabric of the Christian faith that it's essential for every believer to be utilizing their gifts and talents in service to the Master. To do anything less is to miss out on all that He has for you. Pastor Jon concludes the message by exploring the relationship between the three core values that we've been discussing: Connect. Grow. Serve.
"Connect. GROW. Serve"
Text: 2 Peter 1:3-8
If we are truly connected to God, then it stands to reason that we will grow. But Peter indicates that we can't simply sit back and expect this growth to occur, but that we must "make every effort" to add to our faith. We also realize that we don't reach a point of "arrival" but that we have these things in "increasing measure." All of this for the purpose of being effective and productive in the Kingdom of God.
"CONNECT. Grow. Serve."
Text: Romans 5:6-11
What is "The Church"? The first in a three-week series, we explore our core values and mission. Using the biblical images of a vine, the body, and a building, Pastor Jon explores what it means to be reconciled to God and to help others connect with God. Prior to the sermon, the congregation watched this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_4u8TRorUw
"Glory in our Sufferings"
Text: Romans 5:1-5
Pastor Jon considers the themes of honor and shame, which were two of the guiding criteria in the ancient cultures. The Apostle Paul challenges to not "fit in" with the dominant culture, but to glory in our sufferings... and to know that our hope will not put us to shame.
Ashes to Fire #14: "It's a Family Thing"
Text: Romans 8:9-17
The celebration of Pentecost is truly "A Family Thing," as nobody else celebrates this holiday quite like Christians. Pastor Jon explores the themes of family resemblances, family brokenness, and family restoration in this concluding sermon in the Ashes to Fire series.
