Letters From Prison
In this impactful sermon delivered by Pastor Jerry Theis, we explore the profound concept of the "Fear of the Lord" as the key to unlocking the treasures of God's wisdom, knowledge, and salvation. Drawing from Isaiah 33:5-6 and Exodus 20:18-20, Pastor Jerry emphasizes the importance of having a deep reverence and awe for God, distinguishing it from being fearful of Him. Through engaging anecdotes and biblical insights, he challenges us to cultivate a heart posture that honors God above all else, leading to a life free from worldly fears and rich in spiritual blessings. This message encourages us as believers to examine our relationship with God, ensuring that the fear of the Lord is foundational in our walk of faith.
Join us for the final installment of our "Fruit of the Spirit" series, as we delve into Galatians 5 and explore the vital characteristic of self-control. In this sermon, we unpack how the Fruit of the Spirit serves as a dashboard for our Christian lives, reflecting the life and character of Jesus. Discover the battle between the flesh and the Spirit, and learn practical steps to cultivate self-control through repentance, love for Jesus, and daily walking in the Spirit. Be encouraged by the Apostle Paul's struggle and find hope in the truth that the answer is in Jesus Christ. This message will equip you to bear fruit that makes the gospel attractive to others, as you grow in godliness and grace. Don't miss this transformative teaching that will inspire you to fix your eyes on Jesus and live a life that glorifies Him.
This week in our fruit of the spirit series, we focus on the often misunderstood fruit of gentleness. Discover how gentleness, or "prautes" in Greek, is not a sign of weakness but rather strength under control, exemplified perfectly by Jesus Christ. Through biblical examples like Moses and the Apostle Paul, we learn how the Holy Spirit cultivates this fruit in us, enabling us to approach God's Word with humility and interact with others with love and respect. Whether you're new to faith or seeking to deepen your relationship with Christ, this sermon will challenge and inspire you to embody the gentleness that our world desperately needs. Join us as we seek to align our lives with the character of Jesus and grow in the fruit of the Spirit.
This week in our sermon series on the Fruit of the Spirit, we focus on "Faithfulness," understanding it as a reflection of God's unwavering reliability and trustworthiness. Discover how faithfulness is not just about showing up, but about stewardship—being trustworthy and dependable with what God has entrusted to us. Through biblical examples and practical insights, learn how to cultivate faithfulness in your own life by abiding in Christ, understanding God's immense love, and living out His commandments. Whether you're waiting on a promise from God or seeking to grow in your spiritual journey, this message will encourage you to trust in God's faithfulness and inspire you to reflect His steadfast love in your daily walk. Join us as we explore how to live differently from the world, bearing the fruit of the Spirit in every aspect of our lives.
In our ongoing "Fruit of the Spirit" series, this week's focus is on goodness. Pastor Jon explores the true essence of the Gospel, addressing the widespread misconception that good deeds alone can secure a place in heaven. Drawing inspiration from the book of Exodus, where God reveals Himself to Moses by declaring His name and allowing His goodness to pass before him, we gain profound insight into the depth and richness of divine goodness. This passage powerfully reminds us of God's unwavering faithfulness and mercy. We as believers are called to live lives that glorify Jesus, reflecting His goodness to the world around us, and this message emphasizes the transformative power of accepting Jesus Christ as Savior, highlighting that salvation is a gift received through faith, not by works. Join us as we embrace this truth, grow in godliness, and remain connected to Christ, the true vine, to bear lasting fruit.
Join us as we continue our Fruit of the Spirit series focusing on Galatians Chapter 5. In this week's message, we explore the profound biblical concept of kindness, or "chesed" in hebrew, as demonstrated through the life of King David and his covenant relationship with Jonathan. Discover how God's steadfast love and mercy are not only extended to us but are also meant to be shared with others. Through the story of Mephibosheth, we see a powerful illustration of God's grace and kindness, inviting us to reflect on our own lives and how we can embody these virtues in a world that often lacks them. Whether you're new to faith or seeking to deepen your understanding, this sermon will challenge and encourage you to live out the love and kindness of Christ in your daily life. Join us as we learn to be conduits of God's love, transforming the world around us.
As we continue our Fruit of the Spirit series in this week's message, we focus on patience. Pastor Jon explains that patience, derived from the Greek word "makrothumia," involves long-suffering and endurance, reflecting the very nature of God. He emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ, understanding God's love, and keeping His commandments as essential steps to bearing spiritual fruit. Through biblical examples, such as Joseph and the patience of God, we as believers are encouraged to trust in God's timing and remain steadfast in our faith, even during seasons of waiting. This message is a powerful reminder that God's delays are not denials and that every season of life holds purpose and potential for growth. Join us as we learn to cultivate patience and trust in the Lord's perfect timing.
Join us for week three of the Fruit of the Spirit series, as we focus on peace. We are invited to experience the true peace that comes from God—a peace that is not just the absence of problems but the presence of God in our lives. As followers of Jesus, we are encouraged to surrender our anxieties and fears to the Holy Spirit, trusting in God's love and provision. Through collective prayer, let's seek to break the bondages of worry and division, uniting as one in the spirit of peace, as Jesus prayed in John 17. The message reminds us that trusting Jesus is the foundation of our peace and calls us to embrace our role as the church, being salt and light to the world around us. Join us as we grow together in faith and experience the transformative power of God's peace.
In week two of our fruit of the spirit series, we delve into Galatians 5 focusing specifically on joy. Pastor Jon emphasizes that true joy is not a product of our circumstances but a deep-rooted assurance in the promises of God and the finished work of Jesus Christ. Drawing from both Scripture and historical Christian teachings, such as the Heidelberg Catechism, we learn that joy is cultivated through understanding our need for grace, embracing the transformative power of the Gospel, and living in gratitude for our salvation. This message challenges us to reflect on the source of our joy and encourages us to live distinctively as followers of Christ, bearing fruit that reflects His love and grace in a world often marked by despair. Join us as we discover how to navigate life's trials with an inexpressible and glorious joy that comes from our relationship with Jesus.
Join us as we begin a new series and delve into the Fruit of the Spirit, beginning with the foundational theme of love. In a world marked by division and strife, we explore how the Fruit of the Spirit serves as a barometer of our spiritual growth and sanctification. This series emphasizes that the ultimate goal of Christianity is not just reaching heaven, but living a life so full of God's presence that others are drawn to His peace, joy, and love in us. Discover how abiding in Christ and understanding His immense love for us can transform our lives and empower us to love others deeply. Through the lens of Galatians 5, we will unpack the significance of love as the bedrock of our faith, exploring how it is not merely an emotion but a willful, sacrificial act that reflects God's nature. Join us as we seek to grow in love and bear the fruit of the Spirit, becoming a stark contrast to the world and a testament to God's transformative power.
Join us for an impactful sermon exploring the profound message of Easter, "The Resurrection That Still Requires Death." Dive into Matthew 28 and Colossians 3 as we reflect on the resurrection of Jesus and its implications for our lives today. Discover how true resurrection power is accessed through a willingness to die to ourselves, our sins, and our self-righteousness. This sermon challenges us to embrace a life of victory over sin, surrender to Christ, and find our true identity in Him. Whether you're seeking encouragement, correction, or a deeper understanding of your faith, this message offers a transformative perspective on living a life fully surrendered to Jesus. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the life-changing power of the resurrection in your own journey.
This week is the final message in our "Suffering King" series, where we delve into the life of Jesus during Passion Week, exploring the trials and sufferings He endured as a result of His obedience to the Father. This week, we focus on "The Battle of Being Misunderstood," examining how Jesus was often misunderstood by religious leaders, His own disciples, and even His family. As followers of Christ, we too will face misunderstandings and challenges in a world that is increasingly moving away from Christian values. Discover how to navigate these challenges by following Jesus' example of grace and truth, recognizing the spiritual nature of our battles, and embracing the unique path of faith that may seem "weird" to the world. Join us as we learn to walk the narrow path that leads to life, guided by the love and truth of Jesus.
Join us for week 2 of our sermon series as we continue to explore the journey of Jesus to Calvary, focusing on His extraordinary path as a suffering King who embraced humility and sacrifice. This week's message, centered on Matthew 4, takes us into the wilderness experience of Jesus, where He was led by the Spirit into a time of intense testing and temptation. Discover how Jesus navigated this challenging season, using the power of God's Word to counter the enemy's deceptions. Learn how to face your own wilderness moments, recognizing them not as setbacks but as opportunities for spiritual growth and a deeper reliance on God. Embrace the assurance that God is with you in every trial, providing strength and guidance through His presence and promises. Join us as we journey together, growing in faith and becoming more like Christ, even amidst the wilderness.
Join us for an inspiring sermon series leading up to Easter, as we delve into the profound journey of Jesus from His incarnation to His ultimate victory in the resurrection. In this series, we explore the themes of humility, suffering, and obedience as exemplified by Jesus, who, despite being in the form of God, emptied Himself and took on the form of a servant. Discover how the Apostle Paul, writing from a Roman prison, found joy and purpose in knowing Christ and sharing in His sufferings. This series invites us to reflect on the cost of discipleship and the power of the resurrection, encouraging us to embrace the journey with Jesus through life's trials. As we prepare our hearts for Easter, we are reminded of the hope and assurance found in the victory of our Savior. Join us as we celebrate the greatest day in history and the transformative power of the Gospel.
Join us for the final installment of our series, "Doing Hard Things," as we delve into one of the most challenging yet transformative aspects of Christian life: biblical forgiveness. In this sermon, we explore Ephesians 4 and the profound call to forgive others as God has forgiven us. Discover how forgiveness is not about minimizing the hurt or trusting again without boundaries, but about releasing a debt and finding freedom in Christ. Through powerful biblical insights and real-life stories, we learn that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but a testament to the strength and grace we receive from God. Whether you're struggling with past hurts or seeking to understand the depth of God's mercy, this message offers hope and healing. Join us as we uncover the path to true freedom and the power of releasing others from the debts they owe us, just as we have been released by the love of Christ.
As we continue our Doing Hard Things series in this weeks message we focus on Parenting. Pastor Jon explores the challenges and responsibilities of Christian parenting in today's culture, emphasizing that following Jesus does not equate to an easy life. The message delves into the complexities of raising children amidst cultural pressures and technological influences. Drawing from Deuteronomy 6, Pastor Jon highlights the importance of modeling a Christ-centered life, making God a normal part of daily conversations, and trusting in God's faithfulness. With a focus on creating environments that foster a love for Jesus, the message encourages parents to integrate faith into everyday life, pray prophetically for their children, and trust in God's enduring love and guidance. Join us as we explore how to navigate the hard but rewarding journey of parenting with faith and grace.
In this weeks message titled "Myth Busting Marriage," we explore the challenging yet rewarding journey of marriage through the lens of biblical truth. As part of our "Doing Hard Things" series, this message delves into the common myths and lies surrounding marriage, such as the belief that marriage is merely a piece of paper or that one can change their spouse. Drawing from Ephesians 5 and Genesis 2, we reaffirm that marriage is a divine covenant instituted by God, not just a human contract. The message encourages couples to give 100% to their marriage, emphasizing the importance of prayer, selflessness, and spiritual leadership within the home. Whether you're single, married, divorced, or widowed, this message offers hope and practical wisdom for all, reminding us that with God, all things are possible. Join us as we seek to strengthen our relationships and align them with God's perfect design.
In this impactful sermon from our "Doing Hard Things" series, we explore the challenging yet rewarding call to live a life of generosity. Drawing from 1 Timothy 6:17-19, the message emphasizes that following Jesus involves doing hard things, including being generous with our time, talents, and treasures. The sermon highlights that true generosity is countercultural and counterintuitive to our sin nature, urging us to hold loosely to worldly possessions and instead invest in eternal treasures. Through practical insights and biblical wisdom, we are encouraged to give God our first, use our gifts for His glory, and remember that this life is not all there is. Join us as we learn to live generously, reflecting the heart of God, who gave His best for us.
In the second week of our series "Doing Hard Things," we explore the profound call of Jesus to love not only our neighbors but also our enemies. Drawing from John 13 and Matthew 5, the message emphasizes that love is the true trademark of Christianity. Jesus' command to love others, even those who persecute us, challenges us to rise above societal norms and reflect the unconditional, sacrificial love He demonstrated. Through prayer and forgiveness, we are encouraged to align our hearts with God's will, allowing His love to transform us and those around us. Join us as we delve into the heart of what it means to follow Jesus and embody His love in a world that desperately needs it.
This week we start a new series called "Doing Hard Things". In this first message Pastor Jon begins by laying the ground work, exploring the profound call to follow Jesus beyond mere cultural Christianity. Drawing from 2 Timothy 3 and Luke 9, the message challenges us to embrace the true essence of discipleship, which involves denying ourselves, taking up our cross daily, and making Jesus the Lord of our entire lives. The message emphasizes that while following Christ may not make life easier, it brings unparalleled fulfillment, joy, and purpose. As we navigate the challenges of living counter-culturally, we are reminded that salvation is a free gift, but true discipleship requires a daily commitment to surrender and transformation. Join us as we delve into what it truly means to be a follower of Jesus and how we can live out our faith with authenticity and courage.
In this powerful message from guest Pastor Zach Dillon from Radiant Kalamazoo, we as believers are invited to delve deeper into the true essence of our faith, moving beyond mere religious familiarity and routine. Pastor Zach challenges us to examine our hearts for any signs of a religious spirit that might prioritize outward appearances over genuine, heartfelt faith. Through biblical narratives such as those of Martha and Mary, the church of Laodicea, and the father seeking healing for his son, we are reminded of the importance of a sincere, desperate pursuit of God. Pastor Zach encourages us to move beyond theological certainty and embrace a faith that reaches for God amidst life's messiness and challenges. This message calls us to seek a deeper, more authentic relationship with God, characterized by humility, hunger, and a willingness to believe for more in every area of our lives. Join us as we explore what it means to have true faith and experience the transformative power of God in our lives.
Join us for the concluding message of our series, "The Seeker's Reward," as we dive into Romans Chapter 4 to explore "The Seeker's Journey of Faith." Pastor Jon reveals the profound truth that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him, not through their works, but through faith, as demonstrated by Abraham. A life of faith is a dynamic journey of discovery, growth, and deepening friendship with God. Pastor Jon illuminates Abraham's path from a pagan land to becoming the father of faith, showcasing the transformative power of trusting in God's promises. No matter where we find ourselves on this journey, as believers, we are encouraged to uncover God's faithfulness, deepen our relationship with Him, and nurture an intimacy that leads to true friendship with God. Ultimately, every follower is called to continually seek God, understanding that faith is not a singular event but a lifelong journey of growth and relationship with the Lord.
Join us for week 3 of our sermon series titled "The Seeker's Reward," where we explore the profound journey of seeking God and the transformative power it brings to our lives. In this week's message, we delve into 2 Corinthians 3 and the concept of transformation as a reward for those who earnestly seek God. Discover how the new covenant in Christ frees us from the limitations of the old law and invites us into a life of ever-increasing glory. Learn about the two aspects of transformation: the initial conversion moment and the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ. Through practical keys such as proximity to God, reliance on His power, consistent practice, prayer, and patience, we can experience true transformation. Embrace your new identity in Christ and overcome life's challenges with the power of the Holy Spirit.
Join us for the second message in our "Seeker's Reward" series, where we delve into the profound encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman in John 4. As part of our annual "Seek" season, this message explores the theme "God Is Also Seeking," highlighting how God desires true worshipers who balance spirit and truth. Discover how spiritual hunger and passion for God's presence can transform our lives and lead us to become ambassadors of His love. Through the lens of this powerful biblical narrative, we are reminded that God is not seeking the most talented or qualified, but those with hearts devoted to Him. Be encouraged to pursue a deeper relationship with God, fueled by gratitude for His eternal gifts and a zeal for His kingdom. Join us as we align our hearts with God's purpose and seek to be true worshipers in spirit and truth.
This weekend as we begin a new year, we also start a new series called "Seek". Pastor Jon highlights the importance of intentionally pursuing the heart of God at the start of the new year, and emphasizes that seeking God brings rewards, not in material terms but in the deeper knowledge and intimacy with Him. The process of seeking requires spiritual hunger and a willingness to develop that appetite through prayer, scripture, and communal worship. Pastor Jon elaborates on the differences between being a seeker and a wanderer, defining seekers as those driven by spiritual hunger and thirst. Seeking God is not about legalism but rather a genuine desire to know Him, as He is always available and waiting to draw closer to those who seek Him. Together lets embrace this opportunity for deeper communion as we embark on this journey over the next 21 days!
As we conclude the Gift Series, this weekends message focuses on the "Gift of His Peace," drawing from Luke 2 and Isaiah 9, where Jesus is referred to as the "Prince of Peace." Pastor Jon delves into the concept of biblical peace, explaining that true peace is not the absence of troubles but the presence of God in our lives, even during difficult times. We are reminded how to experience this peace through vulnerable prayer, thanksgiving, and focusing on God's promises.
This weekend in the second message of “The Gift” series Pastor Jon focused on the themes of waiting for Jesus' arrival and the meaning of Emmanuel, which translates to "God with us." He emphasized the importance of recognizing that God is always present with us, never leaving or forsaking us, regardless of our shortcomings or struggles. We are reminded of the need for intentionality in our relationship with God, and the importance of creating space for His presence in our lives. Ultimately through faith in Jesus, we can experience a deep and abiding relationship with God, filled with grace and freedom from shame.
This weekend we begin a new Christmas series titled "The Gift," focusing on the significance of Jesus' incarnation and the promises associated with his coming. Pastor Jon emphasizes the importance of waiting on God during the Advent season, illustrating this with the biblical accounts of figures like Joseph and Simeon, who waited patiently, watchfully, and trustfully for the fulfillment of God's promises. We are reminded and encouraged that while waiting can be difficult, it is a time for spiritual growth and preparation and a time to renew our confidence in God's faithfulness, trusting that even in seasons of waiting, God is at work for our good.
Join us for our new sermon series, "Letters from Prison," as we delve into the book of Philippians, one of the Apostle Paul's most heartfelt letters written during his imprisonment in Rome. This expository series will guide us through the rich context and profound messages of joy, gratitude, and perseverance found in Philippians. Despite his challenging circumstances, Paul expresses deep affection for the Philippian church and emphasizes the advancement of the Gospel. Through this series, we will explore how to view our lives through the lens of God's goodness and the Gospel's impact, just as Paul did. Discover the transformative power of being "in Christ" and how it shapes our identity and purpose. Join us as we unpack these timeless truths and learn to see our circumstances through the perspective of God's eternal plan.