Our Current Message Series
Bringing It to the Table Part 1
Big Idea of the Series: The upcoming season is a time for celebrating with family and friends, but it is also a time that can cause anxiety and dread as we prepare for conversations about divisive issues. This two-week series will explore the way Scripture addresses conflict, divisive issues, and the hope of the gospel to bring reconciliation and healing to tense or broken relationships. Rather than avoiding difficult topics entirely or fueling the flames of controversy, Christians have the option of faithful engagement.
October 3 – Communion
Scripture: Ephesians 2:11–22, Colossians 4:2–6
The death and resurrection of Christ has created reconciliation for divided people. In our conversations with nonbelievers, Christians should be wise and intentional.
*October 10 – In Times Like These – How to Pray for Your Church Pastor Jack Doorlag
Every church, sooner or later and for various reasons will encounter times of transition. The church of Ephesus, after a period of great growth and influence, encountered persecution and trials due to a riot in the city on behalf of the worship of Artemis (Diana). One unforeseen result of this persecution was the departure of the founding pastor, the Apostle Paul. Without any pastoral leadership, the Apostle Paul was greatly concerned, so much so that he offered a specific prayer to God on their behalf. His prayer, as we will see today, is a good model for us to offer to God as well during the time of transition we are now facing.
Special Sermon from Pastor Jack Doorlag, please meet for a town hall meeting after service as well concerning our new search team and Pastor Jack’s new role
Oct 17 – Bringing It to the Table Part 2
Big Idea of the Series: The upcoming season is a time for celebrating with family and friends, but it is also a time that can cause anxiety and dread as we prepare for conversations about divisive issues. This two-week series will explore the way Scripture addresses conflict, divisive issues, and the hope of the gospel to bring reconciliation and healing to tense or broken relationships. Rather than avoiding difficult topics entirely or fueling the flames of controversy, Christians have the option of faithful engagement.
Scripture: Jeremiah 29:1–14, Ephesians 4:17–5:2
God cares about our whole lives and communities, so we cannot avoid conversations about difficult topics. Your identity in Christ changes how you interact with others—even how you disagree with them.
One Another – Relationships God’s Way
The phrase “one another” is derived from the Greek word “Allelon” which means “one another, each other; mutually, reciprocally.” It occurs 100 times in the New Testament. Approximately 59 of those occurrences are specific commands teaching us how (and how not) to relate to one another. Obedience to those commands is imperative. It forms the basis for all true Christian community and has a direct impact on our witness to the world (John 13:35).
October 24
Scripture: John 13:35, Romans 12:5; Ephesians 4:25
There are specific reasons God calls us to all the “One Another” commands in the Bible. We should all be going in the same direction because we are all part of the same body. All this for the benefit of the world!
October 31
Scripture: Hebrews 3:13, 10:24
Many of the commands we know and understand as Christians: Love, Care for, pray for one another. But there are also very hard commands: rebuke, admonish, stir up [provoke, stimulate] one another to love and good works.
